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TEXT BOOKS 



PRACTICE OF MEDICINE 



PUBLISHED BY 



LINDSAY & BLAKISTON, Philadelphia. 



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MATERIA MEDIC A, 



THE USE OF STUDENTS, 



BY 



JOHN B. BIDDLE, M.D., 

PROFESSOR OF MATERIA MEDICA AND GENERAL THERAPEUTICS IN THE JEFFERSON MEDICAL 

COLLEGE, MEMBER OF THE AMERICAN PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY, FELLOW OF 

THE COLLEGE OF PHYSICIANS, ETC., ETC. 



FOURTH EDITION, REVISED AND ENLARGED, 
WITH ILLUSTRATIONS. 



PHILADELPHIA: 

LINDSAY &BLAKISTON 

1871. 



Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1S70, 

BY LINDSAY & BLAKISTON, 
In the Office of the Librarian of Congress at "Washington. 



HENRT B. ASHMEAD, PRINTER. 



PREFACE 



TO THE FOUKTH EDITION. 



Although little more than two years have elapsed since the 
publication of the third edition of the Materia Medica, yet the 
improvements in pharmacological science have been so numer- 
ous during this period, that the addition of much new matter 
and a careful revision of the whole work have been made neces- 
sary in the present edition. Most of the articles have been 
modified, some of them have been re-written, and many new 
articles have been introduced, among which may be particu- 
larized : Chloral, Methylic Ether, Tetrabromide of Carbon, 
Pepsine, Oxalate of Cerium, Sulpho-Carbolic Acid and the 
Sulpho-Carbolates, Phosphuret of Zinc, Sambucus, the Bro- 
mides of Ammonium, Sodium, and Lithium, Phosphate of 
Ammonia, and Peroxide of Hydrogen. Some of these articles 
are of only recent introduction into the Materia Medica; all 
of them are now of such established reputation as to claim 
notice. 

The illustrations of the book comprise, as in previous edi- 
tions, representations of most of the important indigenous and 
naturalized plants, as well as diagrams of instruments em- 
ployed in the atomization of liquids. 

The author has aimed in this, as in previous editions, to pre- 



VI PREFACE. 

sent a succinct account of the articles of the Materia Medica, in 
general use in the United States, and discussed in the courses 
of lectures delivered upon the subject, to which he trusts the 
work will be found, as heretofore, to furnish a suitable text- 
book. He takes pleasure in renewing his dedication of it to 
the gentlemen in attendance upon the various medical schools 
of North America. 

Philadelphia, December, 1870. 



CONTENTS. 



PAGE 

Remedies — Definition of, 17 

Division of, ......... 17 

PART I. 

MECHANICAL REMEDIES. 

General Bloodletting, .......... 17 

Leeches and Cups, 18 

Setons and Issues, 19 

Bandages, Frictions, Acupuncture, 19 

PART IT. 

IMPONDERABLE REMEDIES. 

Light, 20 

Heat, 20 

Cold, 21 

Electricity, 22 

PART III. 

PHARMACOLOGICAL REMEDIES, OR MEDICINES. 

Medicines — Definition of, ......... 23 

Modus Operandi of, 24 

Circumstances which modify the Effects of, . . 26 

Forms in which they are used, ..... 26 

Solids, 27 

Liquids, 28 

Semi-solids, 33 

Gases and Vapors, ....... 34 

Weights and Measures, 34 

Effects of Age, Sex, Temperament, Idiosyncrasy, Habit, 

&c, upon, ......... 35 

Parts to which Medicines are applied, ..... 36 



Vlll 



CONTENTS. 



To the Skin, .... 

The Hypodermic Method, 

To Mucous Membranes, 

Atomization, .... 

To Serous Membranes, 

To Ulcers, Wounds, Abscesses, &c 
Classification of Medicines, 
Class I. — Neurotics, . 
Order I. Narcotics, 
Opium, 
Chloral, . 
Lactucarium, 
Belladonna, 
Stramonium, 
Hyoscyanius (Henbane 
Tabacum (Tobacco), 
Lobelia, . 
Conium, (Hemlock), 
Aconitum (Aconite), 
Extractum Cannabis (Extract of Hemp) 
Humulus (Hops), .... 
Dulcamara (Bittersweet), 
Acidum Hydrocyanicum Dilutum (Diluted Hy 

Acid), ...... 

Potassii Cyanidum (Cyanide of Potassium), 
Oleum Amygdala? Ainarae (Oil of Bitter Almond), 
Camphora (Camphor), 
Physostigma (Calabar Bean), 
Cocculus (Cocculus Indicus), 
Woorara, 
Order II. Ethereal Anaesthetics, 
^Ether (Ether), 
Chloroformum (Chloroform), 
Rhigolene, 

Bichloride of Methylene, . 
Methylic Ether, 
Compounds of Amyl, 
Tetrachloride of Carbon, 
Tetrabromide of Carbon, 
Nitrous Oxide, 
Order III. Antispasmodics, . . . 
Assafoetida (Assafetida), 
Galbannm, 

Ammoniacum (Ammoniac), 
Valeriana (Valerian), 



drocyanic 



CONTEXTS. 



IX 





PAGE 


Ammonia Valerianas (Valerianate of Ammonia), . 


92 


Cypripedium, ......... 


92 


Scutellaria (Skullcap), ....... 


92 


Dracontium (Skunk-Cabbage), . 


93 


Thea (Tea), 


93 


Caffea (Coffee), 


93 


Theobroma (Chocolate), ....... 


93 


Erythroxylon Coca (Coca), ...... 


94 


Guanara, .......... 


94 


Mate. . 


94 


Moschus (Musk), ....... 


94 


Castoreum (Castor), . . . . ... 


95 


Oleum Succini (Oil of Amber), .... 


96 


Oleum iEthereum (Ethereal Oil), 


96 


Spiritus JEtkeris Compositus (Compound Spirit of Ether) 


97 


Order IV. Tonics, .......... 


97 


Vegetable tonics, 


98 


Simple Bitters, ......... 


99 


Quassia, ......... 


99 


Simaruba, ........ 


100 


Coptis (Goldthread), 


100 


Gentiana (Gentian), ...... 


101 


Frasera (American Columbo), .... 


102 


Sabbatia (American Centaury), .... 


102 


Calumba (Columbo), ...... 


103 


Chiretta, t \ . . 


. 104 


Xanthorriza (Yellow-root), ..... 


104 


Aromatic Bitters, ........ 


105 


Serpentaria (Virginia Snakeroot), .... 


105 


Anthemis (Chamomile), ...... 


. 106 


Cotula (Mayweed), 


. 107 


Matricaria (German Chamomile), .... 


. 107 


Eupatorium (Thoroughwort), ..... 


. 107 


Absinthium (Wormwood), ..... 


. 109 


Magnolia, ........ 


109 


Liriodendron (Tulip-Tree Bark), .... 


. 109 


Angustura (Angustura Bark), .... 


. 110 


Cascarilla, ........ 


. 110 


Canella, ......... 


. Ill 


Achillea (Yarrow), ....... 


. Ill 


Angelica, ........ 


. 112 


Astringent Bitters, • 


. 112 


Cinchona (Peruvian Bark), 


. 112 


Cornus Florida (Dogwood), ..... 


. 119 


Salix (Willow), 


. 120 



CONTENTS. 



Prunus Virginiana (Wild Cherry Bark) 
Nectandra, ..... 
Geum Rivale (Water Avens), . 
Spiraea Tomentosa (Hardback), 
Prinos Verticillatus (Black Alder), 

Pepsine, 

Mineral Tonics, ...... 

Ferri Praeparata (Preparations of Iron), 
Cupri Praeparata (Preparations of Copper), 
Zinci Praeparata (Preparations of Zinc), . 
Argenti Praeparata (Preparations of Silver), 
Bismnthi Subnitras (Subnitrate of Bisnautb), 
Cadmii Sulpbas (Sulpbate of Cadmium), 
Cerii Oxalas (Oxalate of Cerium), . 
Acida Mineralia (Mineral Acids), 
Order V. Astringents, ..... 

Vegetable Astringents, .... 

Acidum Tannicum (Tannic Acid), . 
Acidum Gallicum (Gallic Acid), 
Galla (Nutgall), . . . 
Catecbu, ...... 

Kino. ...... 

Krameria (Rbatany), 
Haematoxylon (Logwood), 
Quercus Alba (White Oak Bark), . 
Quercus Tinctoria (Black Oak Bark), 
Geranium (Cranesbill), . 
Uva Ursi, . . . . . 

Chimaphila (Pipsissewa), 

Granati Fructus Cortex (Pomegranate R 

Rosa Gallica (Red Rose), ■ 

Rosa Centifolia (Pale Rose), . . . 

Diospyros (Persimmon), . 

Tormentilla (Tormentil), 

Rubus (Blackberry Root), 

Heuchera (Alum-Root), . 

Creasotum (Creasote), 

Acidum Carbolicum (Carbolic Acid), 

Sulpho-Carbolic Acid, 

Sulpho-Carbolates, . . 

Mineral Astringents, 

Plumbi Praeparata (Preparations of Lead), 

Alumen (Alum), 

Aluniinae Sulphas (Sulphate of Alumina), 



ind), 



CONTENTS. 



XI 



of Ammonia' 



Order VI. Stimulants, 

Diffusible Stimulants, 

Alcohol, ..... 

Vinum (Wine), 

Spiritus Vini Gallici (Brandy), 

Ammonias Praeparata (Preparations 

Arnica, 

Phosphorus, 

Phosphuret of Zinc, . ' . 

Aromatics, . . . 

Capsicum (Cayenne Pepper), . 

Piper (Black Pepper), 

Cinnamomum (Cinnamon), 

Myristica (Nutmeg), 

Macis (Mace), 

Caryophyllus (Cloves), 

Pimenta (Pimento), 

Oleum Cajuputi (Cajeput Oil), 

Oleum Terebinthinse (Oil of Turpentine), 

Zingiber .(Ginger), 

Cardamomum (Cardamom), 

Calamus (Sweet Flag), 

Gaultheria (Partridge-Berry), 

Aurantii Cortex (Orange Peel), 

Those belonging to Nat. Ord. Lamiacea?, 

Those belonging to Nat. Ord. Apiaceae, . 

Vanilla, ...... 

Order VII. Sedatives, 

Digitalis (Foxglove), 

Veratrum Viride (American Hellebore), 

Veratrum Album (White Hellebore), 

Veratria, ...... 

Gelsemium (Yellow Jasmine), . 

Antimonii Prasparata (Preparations of Antimony) 

Potassee Nitras (Nitrate of Potassa), 
Refrigerants, ...... 

Sodas Boras. (Borate of Soda), . 

Potassas Citras (Citrate of Potassa), 

Liquor Ammoniae Acetatis (Solution of 
monia,) ..... 

Spiritus JEtheris Nitrosi (Spirit of Nitroi 

Acida Vegetabilia (Vegetable Acids), 
Order VIII. Spinants, ..... 

Nux Vomica, ..... 

Strvchnia, 



Acetate of 



Ether), 



Ain- 



PAGE 

164 
165 
165 
166 
167 
167 
169 
170 
170 
170 
171 
172 
172 
173 
173 
174 
175 
175 
175 
176 
177 
178 
179 
180 
180 
182 
182 
183 
183 
185 
186 
187 
187 
188 
192 
193 
.193 
194 

194 
195 
195 
197 
197 
199 



Xll 



CONTENTS. 



Ignatia, . 

Toxicodendron (Poison Oak), 

Ergota (Ergot), 

Gossvpii Radix (Cotton Root) 
Class II. — Eccritics, .... 
Order I. Emetics, .... 
Vegetable Emetics, 

Ipecacuanha, . 

Sanguinaria (Bloodroot), . 

Euphorbia Corollata (Large Flowering Spurge) 

Euphorbia Ipecacuanha (Ipecacuanha Spurge) 

Gillenia, . 

Sinapis (Mustard), . 
Mineral Emetics, 
Order II. Cathartics, 

Laxatives, . . . 

Manna, 

Cassia Fistula (Purging Cassia 

Oleum Oliva? (Olive Oil), . 

Oleum Amygdala? Dulcis (Oil of Sweet Almond) 

Oleum Ricini (Castor Oil), 

Sulphur, ....... 

Saline Cathartics, 

Magnesia, ...... 

Magnesia? Carbonas (Carbonate of Magnesia 

Magnesia? Sulphas (Sulphate of Magnesia), 

Liquor Magnesia? Citratis (Solution of Citrate of 



Soda? Sulphas (Sulphate of Soda), . 

Manganesii Sulphas (Sulphate of Manganese). 

Soda? Phosphas (Phosphate of Soda), 

Potassa? Sulphas (Sulphate of Potassa), . 

Potassa? Bitartras (Bitartrate of Potassa), 

Potassa? Tartras (Tartrate of Potassa), 

Potassa? et Soda? Tartras (Tartrate of Potassa 
Mild Acrid Cathartics, . ' - . 

Rheum (Rhubarb), 

Juglans (Butternut), .... 

Aloe (Aloes), 

Leptandra, 

Senna, ....... 

Cassia Marilandica (American Senna), 

Sambucus (Elder), 

Drastic Cathartics, . . . ., 

Jalapa (Jalap), ..... 



and 



Mag- 



Soda), 



CONTENTS. 



Xlll 



od an 



Podophyllum (May Apple), 

Scammonium (Scammony), 

Helleborus (Black'Hellebore) 

Colocynthis (Colocynth), 

Gambogia (Gamboge), 

Elaterium, 

Oleum Tiglii (Croton Oil), 
Mercurial Cathartics, 
Enemata, ..... 
Order III. Diaphoretics, . 
Alterative Diaphoretics, 

Sarsaparilla, 

Aralia Nudicaulis (False Sarsaparilla), 

Guaiaci Lignum et Resina (Guaiacum Wo 

Mezereum (Mezereon), 

Sassafras Radicis Cortex (Bark of Sassafras Root) 
Order IV. Diuretics, 

Scilla (Squill), 

Colchicum, ..... 

Erigeron (Fleabane), 

Apocynum Cannabinum (Indian Hemp) 

Taraxacum (Dandelion), . 

Juniperus (Juniper), 

Carota (Carrot Seed), 

Cantharis (Cantharides), . 

Hydrastis Canadensis (Yellow Root), 

Delphinium Consolida (Larkspur), . 

Cytisus Scoparius (Broom), 

Petroselinum Sativum (Parsley), 

Cochlearia Armoracia (Horse-Radish), 
Order V. Blennorrhetics, .... 

Senega (Seneka), .... 

Cimicifuga (Black Snakeroot), 

Allium (Garlic), .... 

Scilla (Squill), 

Terebinthina (Turpentine), 

Oleum Terebinthinse (Oil of Turpentine) 

Pix Liquida (Tar), . 

Resina (Resin), 

Copaiba, . 

Cubeba (Cubeb), 

Matico, 

Pareira (Pareira Brava) 

Buchu, 

Myrrha (Myrrh), 



d Guaiac 



PAGE 

231 
232 
233 
233 
234 
235 
236 
237 
238 
239 
240 
240 
242 
242 
243 
244 
244 
246 
248 
250 
250 
252 
253 
253 
254 
254 
254 
254 
254 
255 
255 
256 
257 
259 
260 
260 
261 
262 
263 
263 
265 
266 
266 
267 
268 



XIV 



CONTENTS. 



Benzoinum (Benzoin), 

Acidura Benzoicum (Benzoic Acid), 

Balsamum Pcruvianimi (Balsam of Peru} 

Balsamum Tolutanum (Balsam of Tolu' 
Order VI. Emmenagogues, 

Sabina (Savine), 

Ruta (Rue), 

Rubia (Madder), 
Class III.— ILematics, 
Order I. Hasmatinics, 
Order II. Alteratives, 

Hydrargyri Praeparata (Preparations of Mercury 

Iodinium (Iodine), 

Potassii Iodidum (Iodide of Potassium), . 

Ammonii Iodidum (Iodide of Ammonium), 

Sodii Iodidum (Iodide of Sodium), . 

Iodoformum (Iodoform), ..... 

Brominium (Bromine), ..... 

Potassii Bromidum (Bromide of Potassium), . 

Ammonii Bromidum (Bromide of Ammonium), 

Bromide of Sodium, ..... 

Bromide of Lithium, . . . . • . 

Oleum Morrhuas (Cod-liver Oil), 

Arsenici Prasparata (Preparations of Arsenic), 

Calcis Phosphas Prascipitata (Precipitated Phosphate of 
Lime), .... .... 

Ammonias Murias (Muriate of Ammonia), 

Ammoniae Phosphas (Phosphate of Ammonia), 

Potassse Chloras (Chlorate of Potassa), . 

Potassae Bichromas (Bichromate of Potassa), . 

Potassae Permanganas (Permanganate of Potassa), 

Aqua Chlorinii (Chlorine Water), . 
Calx Chlorinata (Chlorinated Lime), 
Liquor Sodae Chlorinatas (Solution of Chlorinated ! 

Peroxide of Hydrogen, 

Order III. Antacids, . . . . . . . • 

Potassa? Prasparata (Preparations of Potassa), 
Sodae Praeparata (Preparations of Soda), 
Lithiae Prasparata (Preparations of Lithia), 
Ammoniae Praeparata (Preparations of Ammonia), 
Magnesias Prasparata (Preparations of Magnesia), 
Calcis Prasparata (Preparations of Lime), 
Class IV. — Topical Medicines, . . . . 

Order I. Irritants, 

Rubefacients, 



oda), 



CONTEXTS. 



XV 



Sinapis (Mustard), ...... 

Capsicum (Cayenne Pepper), .... 

Oleum Terebinthina? (Oil of Turpentine), 

Linimentum Ammonia? (Liniment of Ammonia), 

Pix Burgundica (Burgundy Pitch). . 

Pix Canadensis (Canada Pitch), 
Epispastics, . . . ... 

Cantharis (Cantharides), ..... 

Cantharis Vittata (Potato Flies), 

Aqua Ammonia? (Water of Ammonia), . 
Suppurants, 

Oleum Tiglii (Croton Oil), .... 

Unguentum Antimonii (Antimonial Ointment), 
Escharotics, 

Argenti Nitras Fusa (Fused Nitrate of Silver), 

Potassa, 

Potassa cum Calce (Potassa with Lime), 

Acidum Chromicum (Chromic Acid), 

Acidum Arseniosum (Arsenious Acid), . 

Zinci Chloridum (Chloride of Zinc), 

Liquor Hydrargyri Nitratis (Solution of Nitrate of 
ctiry), 

Hydrargyri Chloridum Corrosivum (Corrosive Chlor 
Mercury), ...... 

Potassa? Bichromas (Bichromate of Potassa 

Acida Mineralia (Mineral Acids), 
Order IT. Demulcents, . . . . 

Acacia (Gum Arabic), .... 

Tragacantha (Tragacanth), 

Linum (Flaxseed), ..... 

Ulmus Fulva (Slippery-Elm Bark), 

Sassafras Medulla (Sassafras Pith), 

Althaea (Marshmallow), . 

Sesami Folium (Benne Leaf), . 

Glycyrrhiza (Liquorice Root), 

Extractum Glycyrrhiza? (Liquorice) 

Cetraria (Iceland Moss), . 

Chondrus (Irish Moss), 

Maranta (Arrow-root), 

Canna, ..... 

Tapioca, ..... 

Sago, . . . 

Hordeum (Barley), . 

Arena? Farina (Oatmeal), 

Oryza (Rice), .... 



Mer- 
ide of 



PAGE 

318 
320 
320 
320 
320 
322 
322 
323 
327 
328 
328 
328 
328 
328 
329 
329 
330 
330 
331 
331 

331 

331 
332 
332 
332 
334 
336 
336 
337 
338 
338 
339 
339 
340 
341 
341 
342 
343 
343 
344 
345 
345 
346 



XVI 



CONTEXTS. 



Gutta 



Salep, .... 

Amvlum (Starch), . 

Gelatina (Gelatin),. . 

Ichthyocolla (Isinglass), . 

Adeps (Lard), . 

Sevum (Suet), 

Cetaceum (Spermaceti), . 

Cera (Wax), . 

Oleum Theobromae (Oil of Theobroma 

Glycerins (Glycerin), 

Collodium (Collodion), . 

Liquor Gutta Perchae (Solution of 

Fermentum (Yeast), 

Mel (Honey), .... 

Saccharuni (Sugar), 

Saccharum Lactis (Sugar of Milk), 
Order III. Coloring Agents, 

Crocus (Saffron), 

Santalum (Red Saunders), 

Coccus (Cochineal), 
Order IV. Anthelmintics. 

Spigelia (Pinkroot), 

Chenopodium (Wormseed), 

Santonica. .... 

Azedarach, .... 

Mucuna (Cowhage), 

Filix Mas (Male Fern), . 

Granati Radicis Cortex (Bark of Pomegranat 

Oleum Terebinthinae (Oil of Turpentine), 

Calomel, 

Brayera (Koosso), ..... 

Rottlera (Kameela), .... 

Pepo (Pumpkin Seed), .... 



Percha 



Root), 



PAGE 

346 
346 
346 
347 
347 
347 
347 
347 
348 
343 
349 
350 
350 
351 
351 
351 
351 
351 
352 
352 
353 
353 
355 
356 
356 
357 
357 
358 
358 
358 
358 
359 
359 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



The agents employed in the treatment of diseases are 
denominated Remedies, and the branch of medicine which is 
devoted to their consideration is termed Matekia Medica. 
Remedies may be divided into Hygienic, Mechanical, Impon- 
derable, and Pharmacological agents. 

Hygienic Remedies are usually treated of in works specially 
devoted to the subject. 



PART I. 
MECHANICAL REMEDIES. 

Mechanical Remedies belong chiefly to Surgery. A few 
agents of this class are, however, employed in the practice of 
medicine, and are included in the Materia Medica. They are 
bloodletting (general and local), setons, issues, bandages, friction, 
and acupuncture. 

1. General Bloodletting is performed principally by 
venesection or phlebotomy, which is usually practised on the 
median-cephalic or basilic veins of the arm — sometimes also 
on the external jugular and other veins. Arteriotomy is occa- 
sionally resorted to, on the temporal artery, in cerebral affec- 
tions. 

2 



18 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Bloodletting is employed, to moderate vascular excitement, 
reduce inflammatory action, relieve congestion, allay spasm 
and pain, relax the muscular system, promote absorption, and 
arrest hemorrhage ; and for these purposes it is a most avail- 
able therapeutical resource. So powerful and exhausting an 
agent is, however, always to be resorted to with caution and 
discrimination ; is not to be unduly repeated, even in inflam- 
matory cases ; and is seldom or never proper in diseases of a 
typhoid tendency, or where a tubercular diathesis is suspected, 
or in extreme infancy and old age. 

2. The Local Abstraction of Blood is practised by 
means of leeches and cups. The leech (hirudo) is an aquatic 
worm, common throughout Europe, America, and India. The 
European leech (h. medicinalis, termed also sanguisuga offici- 
nalis), is of a blackish or grayish green color on the back, 
from two to three or four inches in length, and is characterized 
by six longitudinal dorsal ferruginous stripes, the four lateral 
ones being interrupted or tesselated with black spots. The 
American leech (h. decora), is usually from two to three inches 
long, and is of a deep green color, with three longitudinal 
dorsal rows of square spots. Both the imported and indige- 
nous leech are employed in this country, but the latter makes 
a smaller incision, and is preferable in infantile cases. When 
the discharge of blood from leech-bites is excessive, it may be 
arrested by pressure, by compresses of lint, the application of 
alum, creasote, solution of subsulphate of iron, and other 
styptics, or by touching the wounds with nitrate of silver ; and 
if these means fail, the wounds may be sewed. 

In- the operation of cupp>ing, cupping-glasses and a scarifi- 
cator are employed. The removal of atmospheric pressure, 
by the application of glasses partially exhausted of air, pro- 
duces a determination of blood to the capillaries of a part, and 
it is afterwards readily drawn by scarification. When blood is 
not abstracted, the operation is termed dry cupping, and is a 
valuable revulsive agent. The topical abstraction of blood by 
leeches and cut cups combines the advantages of depletion and 



MECHANICAL REMEDIES. 19 

revulsion. Leeches are employed in external inflammations, 
in situations where cups are inadmissible, and in infantile cases. 
Cups are generally preferable in internal inflammations, from 
their more decided revulsive influence. When blood is drawn 
by leeches, its continued flow may be promoted by the applica- 
tion of warm fomentations to the wounds. 

3. Setons (Setacea) and Issues (Fonticuli), are employed 
when a permanent counter-irritant effect is desired. A seton 
is established by passing through the integument a seton-needle, 
armed with a skein of silk ; or, a piece of tape, or a strip of 
sheet lead may be used for the purpose. An issue is made 
with a cauterant, usually potassa; and after the slough has 
separated, a discharge is maintained by the introduction of an 
issue-pea, for which purpose a common dried pea is used, or a 
dried unripe Curagoa orange, or a small round ball, made of 
Florentine orris-root. 

4. Bandages are employed, in the practice of medicine, to 
promote the absorption of dropsical effusions. For the same 
purpose, strips of adhesive plaster may be applied to the chest, 
in chronic pleurisy and empyema, in the manner in which they 
are employed in the treatment of fractured ribs. 

5. Frictions are useful as revellents, and as local stimu- 
lants. They may be employed either with the dry hand, or 
with horse-hair gloves, or with liniments. 

6. Acupuncture consists in the introduction into the body 
of fine, well-polished, sharp-pointed needles. It is a useful 
remedy in rheumatism, neuralgia, local paralysis, &c, and is 
sometimes conjoined with electricity, when the operation is 
known as Electro-puncture. 



20 MATERIA MEDICA. 



PART II. 
IMPONDERABLE REMEDIES. 

Under this head are included Light, Heat, Cold, and Elec- 
tricity. 

1. Light (Lux), exercises an important influence in the 
organized world as a vivifying stimulus. It is useful as- a 
therapeutic agent, in diseases dependent on imperfect nutri- 
tion and sanguification; and the exposure of the surface of 
the body to its action, as far as nudity is compatible with proper 
warmth, promotes the regular development and strength of the 
organs. On the other hand, in many diseases the action of 
light is injurious, and darkness is resorted to as a sedative and 
tranquilizing agent. 

2. Heat (Oalor), applied to the human system in moderate 
amounts, acts, both locally and generally, as an excitant ; in 
intense degree, it destroys vitality and organization. It is 
employed as a local excitant and revulsive, by means of hot 
bottles, hot bricks, the hot foot-bath, &c, and as an applica- 
tion to painful and inflamed parts, in the form of poultices and 
fomentations. As a general application, heat is chiefly resorted 
to in the form of the water-bath and vapor-bath. The warm 
bath, at a temperature from 92° to 98° F., is used as a relax- 
ant in dislocations, hernise, spasm, infantile convulsions, croup, 
&c, and also for its action on the skin in rheumatic and chronic 
cutaneous affections. The hot bath hag a temperature of from 
98° to 112°, and is a powerful excitant in cases of exhaustion, 
asphyxia, or suffocation, and is employed also in old paralytic 
and rheumatic cases. The hot air-bath, at a temperature of 
from 98° to 130°, is useful as an excitant and revellent, and is 



IMPONDERABLE REMEDIES. 21 

employed in cases of internal congestion, and in rheumatic, 
neuralgic, and cutaneous affections. The hot vapor-bath is 
adapted to the same class of cases as the hot air-bath, and 
exerts also a diaphoretic and relaxing influence. 

The destructive agency of heat is resorted to for the pur- 
pose of vesication, as by the application to the skin of a 
metallic plate heated to 212° by immersion in boiling 
water ; and of cauterization, by the employment of red-hot 
iron, or of moxa. Hot iron (known as the actual cautery), 
is used chiefly as a styptic. The term moxa is applied to 
small masses of combustible matter, which are burnt slowly 
in contact with the skin, with a view to a revulsive effect in 
deep-seated inflammations, nervous affections, &c. 

3. Cold (Frigus). — The application of cold to living bodies 
produces a reduction of the temperature and volume of the 
part, with contraction of the bloodvessels and other tissues, 
and suspension of the secretions and exhalations. The appli- 
cation of excessive or prolonged cold is followed by the torpor 
and death of the part. When it is applied in moderation and 
for a short period, reaction generally takes place, with a re- 
turn and even increase of temperature, volume, color and sen- 
sibility. 

Cold is employed therapeutically, with a view to both its 
primary and secondary effects. The primary action of cold is 
used, 1. To lessen vascular and nervous excitement and preter- 
natural heat, as by the use of cold lotions and spongings in 
fevers, the ice-cap in cerebral affections, the shower-bath in 
insanity, the bladder filled with ice to the spine in epilepsy, 
the ether spray to the spine in chorea, &c. 2. To constringe 
the tissues, promote the coagulation of the blood, and lessen 
the volume of parts ; hence the local application of ice or 
cold water to abate inflammation, check hemorrhage, cure aneu- 
rism, and reduce strangulated hernia. 3. To produce local 
anaesthesia in surgical operations, by means of a freezing mix- 
ture topically applied. 

The secondary effects of cold are obtained by the employ- 



22 MATERIA MEDICA. 

ment of a less intense degree of cold. They are resorted 
to, 1. To invigorate the system, as with the cold shower-bath 
and plunge-bath. 2. To rouse the system, as by cold affusions 
in coma and asphyxia. 3. To recall the vital properties 
to frost-bitten parts. 4. To effect local excitation, as by 
the application of the cold douche to rheumatic and paralyzed 
limbs. 

Cold liquids and ice are taken into the stomach as refrige- 
rants in fevers. They are introduced into the rectum and 
vagina, to check hemorrhage and allay irritation; and cold 
water, injected into the impregnated uterus, is among the most 
certain means of inducing premature delivery. 

4. Electricity (Meetricitas). — The electric current acts 
as an excitant to the nerves both of sensation and motion. 
It influences to some extent, also, the secretions, through its 
action on the nerves distributed to the secreting organs ; it 
may promote the function of absorption, through an effect on 
the absorbents ; and it affects the circulation, by inducing con- 
tractions of the heart. A powerful charge of electricity pro^- 
duces violent and frequently fatal effects on the central ner- 
vous system. 

The various forms of electricity are resorted to for their 
stimulant effect in a number of nervous affections. It is 
chiefly used in cases of local and functional paralysis, which 
are independent of lesion of the nervous centres. It has 
also been employed with occasional good effect in amaurosis, 
nervous deafness, neuralgia, photophobia, chronic rheumatism, 
chorea, hysteria, and other neuroses, and to excite uterine con- 
tractions. From its influence on the secretions, it has been 
prescribed as an emmenagogue, to overcome constipation, to 
promote the biliary secretion, and to heal ulcers. It has been 
also resorted to with success to promote the absorption of 
tumors and indurations. In the form of electro-mao-netism, it 
is a powerful excitant in the coma resulting from narcotic 
poisons, and in asphyxia generally, and is probably the most 
active remedy that can be exhibited in these cases. 



PHARMACOLOGICAL REMEDIES. 23 

For medicinal purposes, electricity is obtained from three 
sources : 

1. Friction, as in the common electrical machine. 

2. Chemical action, as in the voltaic battery. 

3. Magnetism, either of temporary magnets, as in the coil 
machines, or of permanent magnets, as in the electro-magnetic 
machines. 



PART III. 

PHARMACOLOGICAL REMEDIES. 

Pharmacological Remedies, or Medicines, are substances, 
not essentially alimentary, which, when applied to the body, so 
alter or modify its vital functions, as to be rendered applicable 
to the treatment of diseases. 

The designation, Materia Medica, is, strictly speaking, 
limited to the consideration of medicines. The application 
of medicines to the treatment of diseases is termed Thera- 
peutics. Pharmacy is the department of Materia Medica 
which treats of the collection, preparation, preservation, and 
dispensation of medicines. 

To the student of medicine, the objects of examination in 
relation to medicines are, — the sources from which they 
are derived; the mode in which they are prepared and 
brought to market; their sensible qualities, and also their 
chemical composition and relations ; their physiological 
effects, or the effects which they are capable of producing 
in healthy individuals;, their therapeutical effects, or those 
which they produce in morbid states of the system ; and 
lastly, the doses, modes of administration, and preparations 
(extemporaneous and officinal), under which they are admin- 
istered. 



24 MATERIA MEDICA. 

To facilitate a uniform nomenclature and dispensation of 
medicines, authoritative works have been issued in different 
countries, termed Pharmacopoeias. The Pharmacopoeia of the 
United States was first promulgated by the authority of a 
convention held at "Washington, in 1820 ; and it has been 
since revised decennially. It furnishes a list of articles which 
are in general use, sets forth the weights and measures which 
are employed in dispensing and preparing them, and supplies 
formulae for such preparations as should be kept in the shops, 
and which are thence termed officinal, from the Latin word 
officma, a shop. 

The effects of medicines take place either in the parts to 
which they are applied, or in distant parts of the system. 
The former are termed local or topical effects ; the latter, re- 
mote or constitutional effects. 



MODUS OPERANDI OF MEDICINES. 

The medium through which the influence of medicines 
is exerted on remote parts of the body, or their modus 
operandi (as it is usually termed), was long a contested 
point. Until within a comparatively recent period, it was 
maintained that medicines and poisons transmitted their 
impressions from the parts receiving them to distant parts, 
by means of a communication through the nerves. But it is 
now generally admitted, that the absorption or passage of 
the medicinal or poisonous molecules into the blood is 
necessary to their action on parts remote from the seat of 
impression. 

While, however, it is well established, that the character- 
istic action of medicines is transmitted to the parts influ- 
enced, exclusively through the medium of the circulation, 
it is undeniable that the functions of the nervous system 
may be secondarily excited by a local medicinal impression. 
The number of agents which operate in this manner is, how- 
ever, very limited. 



MODUS OPERANDI OF MEDICINES. 25 

The action of medicines by absorption is proved by a variety 
of facts. 

They are detected in many parts of the system, remote from 
that to which they have been applied, having been found in the 
blood, the solids, and the excretions, after being taken into the 
stomach. If the circulation be interrupted, the influence of a 
poison cannot be transmitted ; while its effects have been ob- 
tained, when applied to a wound in the foot of an animal, after 
all parts of the extremity have been severed, except the artery 
and vein. In confirmation of the doctrine of absorption may 
be cited also the admitted facts, that the remote effects of 
medicines or poisons are promoted or retarded by circum- 
stances which promote or retard absorption ; that the blood of 
poisoned animals is found to possess poisonous properties ; that 
the fluids and solids acquire medicinal properties after the use 
of medicines (as the milk of nurses) ; that the specific effects of 
medicines are produced by their injection into the blood ; and 
that medicines disappear from closed cavities into which they 
are introduced. 

After their absorption into the blood, medicines circulate 
with it, penetrate through the capillaries to the various organs, 
and are afterwards thrown out of the system with the excre- 
tions. Some medicines produce changes in the condition of the 
circulating fluid. Others have a specific action upon some one 
or other of the organs of the body. And in passing out of the 
system, most medicines act as stimulants to the organs by 
which they are thrown out. 

The absorption of medicines is effected principally by the 
veins, and in some degree also by the lymphatics and lacteals. 
The medicinal particles penetrate or soak through the inter- 
stices of the tissue with which they are placed in contact, and 
are thence diffused through the circulation. To a limited ex- 
tent, medicinal substances probably penetrate all the tissues of 
the part to which they are applied, and in this way the activity 
of medicines is most decided upon the organs contiguous to the 
seat of application. 

The absorption of insoluble substances cannot take place 



26 MATERIA MEDICA. 

until they are previously rendered soluble. In the stomach, 
this is accomplished chiefly by the agency of the acids of diges- 
tion, lactic and muriatic. 

It is objected to the theory of the operation of medicines by 
absorption, that certain poisons act with a rapidity incompati- 
ble with their previous introduction into the circulation. This 
is, however, not the fact, as the action of the most violent 
poisons (hydrocyanic acid, for example), is never wholly instan- 
taneous ; and careful experiments have shown that the velocity 
of the circulation is sufficient to diffuse a poison through the 
blood in a shorter space of time than its effects are ever ob- 
served on the system. 

CIRCUMSTANCES WHICH MODIFY THE EFFECTS OF MEDICINES. 

The circumstances which modify the effects of medicines re- 
late both to the medicines and to the human system. 

1. The properties of medicines are modified by the soil in 
which they grow, by climate, cultivation, age, and the season 
of the year at which they are gathered. 

2. Medicines are more active, because more readily absorbed, 
in a state of solution than in a solid state. 

3. Soluble medicines are often rendered inert by a chemical 
reaction which converts them into insolubles : in this way anti- 
dotes modify the effects of poisons. 

4. Differences in dose greatly modify the effects of medi- 
cines. 

5. Pharmaceutical modifications have an important influence 
on the efficacy of medicines. They may be exhibited in the 
solid, semi-solid, liquid, and aeriform states : 

In the solid state they are administered in the shape of 
powders, pills, lozenges, and confections. 

In the liquid state, they are administered in the shape of 
mixtures, solutions, medicated waters, infusions, decoctions, 
tinctures, spirits, wines, vinegars, syrups, honeys, and oxy- 
mels. 

In the semi-solid, or soft state, they are applied externally, 



FORMS IN WHICH MEDICINES ARE USED. 27 

in the form of liniments, ointments, cerates, plasters, and cata- 
plasms. 

In the form of gases and vapors, medicines are used for pur- 
poses of inhalation. 

SOLIDS. 

Powders (Pulveres). The form of powder is usually se- 
lected for the administration of medicines, which are not very 
bulky, nor of very disagreeable taste, which have no corrosive 
property, and which do not deliquesce rapidly on exposure. 
Deliquescent substances, and such as contain a large propor- 
tion of fixed oil, should always be recently pulverized, as they 
are liable to spoil when kept. Most substances, employed in 
the form of powder, are usually pulverized on a large scale. 
For the purpose of pulverizing drugs in small quantity, the 
physician makes use of a pestle and mortar, of iron, brass, 
glass, "Wedgewood ware, or marble. Various means are re- 
sorted to, to facilitate the operation of powdering, and care 
should be taken to separate the inert portions and impuri- 
ties. 

The lighter powders may be administered in water or other 
thin liquid. The heavier powders require a more consistent 
vehicle, as syrup, treacle, or honey. 

Pills (JPilulce), are small globular masses, of a size that can 
be conveniently swallowed. The form of pill is suitable for 
the exhibition of medicines which are not bulky, and are of 
disagreeable taste or smell, or insoluble in water. Deliques- 
cent substances should not be made into pills, and those which 
are efflorescent should be previously deprived of their water of 
crystallization. 

Some substances are readily made into pills, with the addi- 
tion of a little water or spirit. Very soft or liquid substances 
require the addition of some dry inert powder, as bread-crumb, 
or powdered gum Arabic, to reduce them to a proper consis- 
tence. "Wax is a good excipient for oils. 



28 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Heavy powders are mixed with some soft solid, as conserve 
of roses, plasma, manna, &c, or with a tenacious liquid, as 
treacle, or syrup. When the pilular mass is properly prepared, 
it is rolled with a spatula into a cylinder of uniform thickness, 
and is then divided into the required number of pills, with the 
hand, or more accurately, with a pill-tile, or with a pill-ma- 
chine. The pills are rolled into spherical form between the 
fingers ; and, to prevent adhesion, are dusted with some dry 
powder, as powdered liquorice root or carbonate of magnesia. 
To conceal the taste and smell of pills, they are some- 
times coated with gelatin, collodion, mucilage, sugar, &c. Pills, 
which have been long kept, may pass unchanged through the 
stomach and bowels, and are therefore objectionable. 

m 

Troches or Lozenges (TrocJiisci), are small, dry, solid 
masses, made of powders with sugar and mucilage, and in- 
tended to be held in the mouth and allowed to dissolve slowly. 
Mucilage of tragacanth is usually employed in preparing 
lozenges. 

Confections (Confectiones), are soft solid preparations, 
made with some saccharine matter. They are subdivided 
into Conserves and Electuaries: the former consist of com- 
binations of recent vegetable substances and refined sugar, 
beat into a uniform mass ; the latter are extemporaneous mix- 
tures of medicines, usually dry powders, with syrup, honey, or 
treacle. 



LIQUIDS. 

Mixtures (Misturce), are preparations of insoluble sub- 
stances, suspended in water by means of gum Arabic, sugar, 
the yolk of eggs, or other viscid matter. When the sus- 
pended substance is oleaginous, the mixture is termed* an 
emulsion. 

Solutions (Liquores), are solutions (chiefly aqueous) of 



FORMS IN WHICH MEDICINES ARE USED. 29 

non-volatile substances, which are wholly soluble in the 
menstruum employed. In making solutions, and all other 
aqueous preparations, the water used should be fresh river, 
rain, or distilled water, and free from saline impurities. 

Medicated Waters (Aquce), are preparations consisting 
of water holding volatile or gaseous substances in solution. 
Many of them, having been made by distilling water from 
plants containing volatile oil, were formerly termed distilled 
waters. In place of distillation, trituration with carbonate 
of magnesia (afterwards separated by filtration) 'is now em- 
ployed to impregnate water with volatile oils. 

Infusions (Infusa), are partial solutions of vegetable sub- 
stances, in water, obtained without the aid of ebullition. 
They are made with both hot and cold water : the former 
extracts the soluble principle more rapidly and in larger 
proportion ; the latter is preferred, when the active princi- 
ple would be injured by heat, or when it is desirable not to 
take up some matter, insoluble at a low temperature. In- 
fusions have been usually made by pouring water upon the 
substances to be infused, and allowing it to remain upon 
them for some time : when the process takes place at a heat 
of from 60° to 90°, it is termed maceration ; when at a heat 
of from 90° to 100°, digestion. Of late years, a more effi- 
cient mode of extracting the medicinal virtues of plants 
has been introduced, termed percolation. In this operation, 
the medicinal substance is coarsely powdered, and placed 
in an instrument called a percolator, in the lower part of 
which is fitted a porous or colander-like partition or dia- 
phragm. The powder is then saturated with water or other 
menstruum, till it will absorb no more ; and, after they 
have remained for some time in contact, fresh portions of the 
menstruum are added, till the required quantity is employed. 
The fresh liquid, as it is successively added, percolates the 
solid particles of the medicinal substance, driving the pre- 
viously saturated liquid before it ; and in this way completely 



30 MATERIA MEDICA. 

exhausts the substance to be dissolved. An ordinary glass 
funnel answers very well for percolation; and a circular piece 
of muslin or lint, pressed into the neck by means of a cork 
with notched sides, forms a good diaphragm,— care being 
taken to interpose a similar piece of muslin, moistened 
slightly with the menstruum, between the diaphragm and 
powder. 

Decoctions (Decocta), are partial solutions of vegetable sub- 
stances in water, in which the active principles are obtained 
by ebullition. This is a more rapid and active mode of extract- 
ing the virtues of plants than by infusion. But it is objection- 
able, when the proximate principles are volatile at a boiling 
heat, or undergo decomposition by ebullition. In making de- 
coctions, ebullition should be continued for a few minutes only, 
and the liquid should be allowed to cool slowly in a close ves- 
sel. As they are apt to spoil, they should be prepared only 
when wanted for use. 

Tinctures (Tincturce), are solutions of medicinal substances 
in alcohol or diluted alcohol. Ammonia and ethereal spirit 
are also sometimes employed as solvents ; and solutions in 
these menstrua are called ammoniated tinctures and ethereal 
tinctures. Alcohol or rectified spirit (of a sp. gr. 0.835, 
according to the IT. S. Pharmacopoeia), is employed in making 
tinctures of substances nearly or quite insoluble in water, as 
the resins, essential oils, camphor, &c. Diluted alcohol or 
proof spirit (consisting of equal measures of officinal alcohol 
and water) is preferred, when the substance is soluble both 
in alcohol and water, or when some of its ingredients are 
soluble in the one menstruum and some in the other. Tinc- 
tures have been usually prepared by maceration or digestion, 
more commonly by the former process, and a period of two 
weeks is recommended for its duration. It should be conducted 
in well-closed glass vessels, which should be frequently shaken; 
and when the maceration is completed, the tincture should be 
» separated from the dregs by filtration. The U. S. Pharmaco- 



FORMS IN WHICH MEDICINES ARE USED. 31 

poeia now recommends percolation in making most tinctures, 
and, in the hands of skilful pharmaceutists, this process is 
preferable, as the most thorough mode of exhausting medi- 
cinal substances ; but, where the operator cannot trust him- 
self, it is better to recur to the old process *of maceration. 
Tinctures should be kept in bottles accurately stoppered, to 
prevent evaporation, which might seriously increase their 
strength. 

The form of tincture is adapted to the exhibition of medi- 
cines, which are to be given in small quantity, and it affords a 
convenient mode of graduating doses. In prescribing large 
and continued doses of tinctures, the stimulating effects of the 
alcohol which they contain must be borne in mind. 

Spirits (Spiritus), are alcoholic solutions of volatile or gase- 
ous principles, properly speaking procured by distillation, but 
now usually prepared by dissolving the volatile principles in 
alcohol or diluted alcohol. The spirits of the aromatic vegetable 
oils are used to give a pleasant odor and taste to mixtures, to 
correct the nauseating and griping effects of cathartics, and also 
as carminatives and stomachics. 

Wines ( Vina), are solutions of medicinal substances in 
Sherry or other white wine. They are more liable to decom- 
position than tinctures, and are of variable strength ; but they 
are in some cases preferred from the less stimulating character 
of the menstruum, which has also sometimes an increase of 
solvent power from the acid which it contains. 

Vinegars {Aceta), are infusions or solutions of medicinal 
substances in distilled vinegar or diluted acetic acid, which is a 
particularly good solvent of -many vegetable principles, as the 
organic alkalies. 

Honeys (Mellita), are preparations of medicinal substances 
in honey. In oxymels, a combination of honey and vinegar is 
employed. The latter preparations are not now much used. 



32 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Syrups (Syrupi), are preparations of medicinal substances 
in concentrated solutions of sugar. The term syrup (syrupus), 
or simple syrup, is applied to a solution of sugar (thirty-six 
troyounces) in water (Oij fSxij), dissolved with the aid of heat. 
Medicated syrups are usually made by incorporating sugar with 
vegetable infusions, decoctions, expressed juices, fermented 
liquors, or simple aqueous solutions. They may also be pre- 
pared by adding a tincture to simple syrup, and afterwards' 
evaporating the alcohol ; or, by mixing the tincture with sugar 
in coarse powder, and dissolving the impregnated sugar, after 
evaporation, in the necessary proportion of water. Syrups are 
apt to be spoiled by heat, and should be made in small quanti- 
ties at a time. 

By the evaporation of the solutions of vegetable principles, 
a very useful class of preparations termed Extracts (Extracta), 
is obtained. They are prepared from infusions, decoctions, 
tinctures, and vinegars ; and sometimes, in the case of recent 
vegetables, from the expressed juices of plants, usually diluted 
with water. Extracts prepared by the agency of water, are 
termed watery extracts ; those by means of alcohol, alcoholic 
extracts ; those by means of acetic acid, acetic extracts. The 
evaporation of extracts is generally continued, till they have a 
pilular consistence. Within a few years, however, these pre- 
parations have been employed in the liquid form, under the 
name of Fluid Extracts (Extracta Fluida), which have the ad- 
vantage of convenience of administration, and of being pre- 
pared at a less degree of heat. They are more liable than the 
solid extracts to spontaneous decomposition ; and this difficulty 
is usually counteracted by means of sugar. In making the 
fluid extracts, alcohol, diluted alcohol, and acetic acid are the 
menstrua resorted to. The portion of the solvent, which re- 
mains after evaporation, contributes in some degree to the pre- 
servation of the preparation. Under the name of Juices 
(Succi), the expressed juices of fresh plants, preserved by one- 
third of their bulk of alcohol, are occasionally used. Although 
officinal in the British Pharmacopoeia, these are not, however, 
recognized by that of the United States. 



FORMS IN WHICH MEDICINES ARE USED. 33 

The Oleoresins (Oleoresince), are extracts obtained by the 
agency of ether, which consist of fixed or volatile oils, holding 
resins and sometimes other active matters in solution. They 
retain a liquid or semi-liquid state, upon the evaporation of the 
liquid employed in their preparation, and have the property of 
self-preservation. 



semi-solids. 

Liniments {Linimenta), are oily preparations designed for 
external use, usually thicker than water, but always liquid at 
the temperature of the body. 

Ointments (Unguenta), are preparations of a consistence 
like that of butter, made with lard or some other fatty sub- 
stance. They are fitted for application to the skin by friction 
or inunction. Most of the ointments become rancid, when 
long kept, and it is therefore best to prepare them only as 
wanted for use. Simple Ointment, or Ointment of Lard ( Un- 
guentum Adipis), consists of one part of white wax and four 
parts of lard. 

Cerates (Cerata), are made of oil or lard, mixed with wax, 
spermaceti, or resin, with the addition of various medicinal 
substances. They are of harder consistence than ointments, 
and do not melt when applied to the skin. Simple Cerate, or 
Cerate of Lard (Ceratum Adipis), consists of one part of white 
wax and two parts of lard. 

Plasters (Emplastra), are adhesive at the temperature of 
the body, and must generally be heated to be spread. Some 
substances have sufficient consistence and adhesiveness to be 
made into plasters. Usually, however, medicinal substances 
when employed in this form, are mixed with Lead Plaster or 
Litharge Plaster (LJmplastmm Plumbi), a compound of olive oil 
and litharge. Plasters are prepared for use by spreading them 

3 






34 MATERIA MEDICA. 

upon sheepskin, linen, or muslin, with a margin a quarter or 
half inch broad. 

Cataplasms, or Poultices (Oataplasmata), are soft, moist 
substances, intended for external use. The common emollient 
poultice, employed to relieve inflammation and promote suppu- 
ration, is made by mixing bread-crumbs with boiling milk, or 
powdered flaxseed with boiling water. 



GASES AND VAPORS. 

When employed in this form, medicines are administered by 
inhalation. This may be effected either by diffusing the gas or 
vapor through the air to be respired by the patient ; or by in- 
closing it in a bag or bottle with a suitable tube, through which 
the patient may breathe ; or, when ethereal vapors are em- 
ployed, by saturating a sponge or handkerchief with the ether, 
and applying it to the mouth and nostrils of the patient ; or 
the fumes of burning medicinal substances may be inhaled, by 
means of cigarettes or pipes, variously contrived. 

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. 

In prescribing and dispensing medicines, the following are 
the. weights and measures employed in the United States, with 
their signs annexed. 



The pound, ft) 
The ounce 
The drachm 
The scruple 



TROY OR APOTHECARIES' WEIGHT. 

f Twelve ounces, |j. 

I Eight drachms, 2. 
contains J mi & ,2. 

1 Three scruples, g. 

Twenty grains, gr. 



The term pound should be avoided in formulas, owing to the 
danger of mistakes from confounding the troy pound with the 
heavier avoirdupois pound, and large weights should be ex- 
pressed in troyounces. 



CIRCUMSTANCES MODIFYING THE EFFECTS OF MEDICINES. 35 



WINE MEASURE. 

The gallon, C 
The pint 
The fluidounce 
The fluidrachm 



f Eight pints, 0. 



Eight fluidrachms, fj. 
[ Sixty minims, TT^. 



Liquid measures are sometimes prescribed by drops, which, 
however, vary in quantity according to the nature of the 
liquid, the shape and size of the vessel from which it is 
dropped, and even the amount of liquid which the vessel con- 
tains. Approximate measurements are also frequently em- 
ployed in prescribing the less powerful liquids : thus a teacup 
is used for foiv, or a gill ; a wineglass for f^ij ; a tablespoon 
for f5ss ; a teaspoon for foj. 

A variety of circumstances, relating to the human organism, 
modify the effects of medicines. 

Age exerts a most important influence in this particular. 
Children are more susceptible than adults ; and, in advanced 
age, also, smaller doses are required than in the prime of life. 
Xo general rule can be laid down for the adaptation of the 
doses of medicines to different ages, as the different susceptibilities 
to the influence of different medicines are unequal at the same 
age. Thus, infants are peculiarly alive to impressions from 
opium, while, in the cases of calomel and castor oil, they will 
bear much larger proportional doses. 

Dr. Young's scheme for graduating the doses of medicines 
to different ages answers very well in prescribing: "For chil- 
dren under 12 years, the doses of most medicines must be di- 
minished in the proportion of the age to the age increased by 

12 ; thus, at two years to 4, viz. : jj^ 2 =^. At 21, the full 
dose may be given." 

Sex, temperament, and idiosyncrasy, all modify the effects of 
medicines. Women require somewhat smaller doses than men ; 
and during menstruation, pregnancy, and lactation, all active 
treatment, which is not imperatively demanded, should be 
avoided. To persons of a sanguine temperament, stimulants 
are to be administered with caution, while in cases of nervous 



:;»; materia medica. 

temperament, the same care is to be observed in the employ- 
ment of evacuants. Mercurials are called for where the bilious 
temperament exists, but on the other hand they are generally 
injurious where the lymphatic temperament is strongly marked. 
Idiosyncrasy renders many individuals peculiarly susceptible 
or insusceptible to the action of particular medicines, as mer- 
cury, opium, &c. 

Habit diminishes the influences of many medicines, espe- 
cially narcotics ; and not a few diseases produce a remarkable 
insusceptibility to medicinal action. 

The influence of race,- climate, occupation, and the imagina- 
tion upon the effects of medicines is often decided, and deserves 
attention in prescribing. 



PARTS TO WHICH MEDICINES ARE APPLIED. 

Medicines are applied to the skin, to mucous membranes, to 
serous membranes, to wounds, ulcers, cysts, and abscesses, and 
they are injected into the veins. 

1. To the Skin. — Medicines are applied to the skin for both 
a local and a general effect. As their influence on distant 
organs is the result of their absorption, this function is usually 
assisted by friction, or by removal of the cuticle, when medicines 
are applied to the skin to effect remote parts of the system. 

The application of medicines to the skin by friction is occa- 
sionally resorted to, but its results are slow and uncertain ; and, 
when we wish to affect the system through the agency of the 
skin, the preferable method is to apply the medicine to the 
dermis denuded of the cuticle. 

This is termed the endermic method, and the cuticle is usually 
removed by means of a blister. The medicine is applied to the 
denuded dermis in the form of a powder, or, if very irritating, 
it may be incorporated with gelatine, lard, or cerate. This 
method is useful in case of irritability of the stomach, of ina- 
bility to swallow, or where we desire to influence the system 
rapidly, and by every possible avenue, or where it is of import- 
ance to apply the medicine near the seat of disease. The dose 



PARTS TO WHICH MEDICINES ARE APPLIED. 37 

is to be two or three times the amount which is administered 
by the stomach. 

Another method of applying medicines through the skin, is 
by injection into the subcutaneous cellular tissue. This method 
is termed the hypodermic method, and is of recent introduction 
into therapeutics. Medicines are injected hypodermically, for 
both a local and a general effect. A constitutional impression 
can be produced by this means much more rapidly and effi- 
ciently than by the introduction of medicines into the stomach. 
It is particularly adapted to the speedy relief of pain, to the 
treatment of diseases, in which it is desirable to influence the 
system with the greatest possible rapidity and effect, and also 
to cases where the internal administration of medicines is inter- 
fered with. The substances proper for hypodermic injection, 
are those which are small in bulk and are of ready solubility, 
such as the vegetable alkaloids. Substances of imperfect solu- 
bility should not be injected hypodermically, dangerous results 
having followed therefrom, as from the use of the salts of quinia. 
The dose, particularly in first injections, should be one half the 
ordinary dose by the stomach, and for females about a third. 
The instrument used for injection is a small syringe, armed 
with a small, sharp lancet, and for the better regulation of the 
dose, it is desirable that the syringe should be graduated. 
When a constitutional effect only is aimed at, a good spot for 
injection is at the insertion of the deltoid muscle in the arm, 
and where repeated operations are practised, it is well to vary 
the point of injection. 

2. To Mucous Membranes.— Medicines are applied to all the 
gastro-pulmonary and genito-urinary mucous surfaces. 

a. To the conjunctiva, they are applied for local effects only, 
and are termed colly ria, or eye-washes. 

b. To the nasal or pituitary membrane, they are applied 
usually for local purposes ; sometimes, however, to irritate, and 
excite a discharge, when they are termed errhines ; sometimes, 
also, to produce sneezing, with a view to the expulsion of 
foreign bodies from the nasal cavities, when they are termed 
sternutatories. 



38 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



c. To the mucous membrane of the mouth and throat, medi- 
cines are applied almost exclusively for local purposes. When 
in solution, they are termed gargarismata or gargles. Powders 
are introduced by insufflation. 

d. To the Eustachian tubes, washes are applied in local 
affections. 

e. On the aerial or tracheobronchial membrane, medicines 
produce a very decided influence, both local and general. 
Liquid substances are introduced into the air passages by 
means of a sponge or syringe, in the treatment of chronic 
inflammations of the larynx. Various substances are inhaled 
with advantage in phthisis, chronic bronchitis and laryngitis, 
asthma, &c, while the most powerful effects are produced on 
the system by the absorption of ethereal vapors and gases 
through the pulmonary surface. 

Within the last few years, liquids have been introduced 
into the air-passages, for the treatment of diseases of the res- 
piratory organs, in the form of a fine spray. This mode of 
application, termed the pulverization, nebulization, or atomiza- 
tion of fluids, has proved very valuable, particularly in the 



Fie. 1. 




relief of throat affections. Various instruments have been 
resorted to in the atomization of liquids. The hand-ball atom- 
izer, W hich is usually employed, consists of two glass tubes, 



PARTS TO WHICH MEDICINES ARE APPLIED. 



39 



with capillary openings, placed at right angles to each other, 
the vertical tube being dipped in a bottle containing the fluid 
to be atomized, while at the other end it is close to and about 
opposite to the centre of a capillary opening in the horizontal 
tube. This connects with an elastic tube, intercepted by two 
elastic balls, one in the middle, the other, which is furnished 
with the valves, at the end of the tube. The upper ball acts 
as a reservoir, into which a current of air is forced from the 
lower ball by pressure with the hand. The air in the vertical 
glass tube being rarified, the liquid rises to the capillary open- 
ing, and is there pulverized by the current of air from the 
horizontal tube. The atomizer is used also to produce local 
anaesthesia, and as a deodorizer. 

As modified by Winterich, the spray can be readily gener- 




ated within various parts of the body, as the back of the 
throat, nostril, meatus of the ear, &c. Instead of air, steam 
has been substituted as the forcing power in the apparatus 
known as Single's. In this instrument, as modified by Da 



Fig. 3. 




Costa, inhalation can be practised without fatigue or assistance, 
and the warmth of the spray is also an advantage in many 
diseases of the respiratory organs. 
/. The g astro-intestinal mucous membrane, of all parts of 



40 MATERIA MEDICA. 

the body, is most employed for the exhibition of medicines. 
The stomach, from its great susceptibility, its active absorbing 
power, and the numerous relations which it has with almost 
every part of the body, is the chief recipient of medicinal 
agents. The rectum is, however, also frequently employed for 
various purposes, as to relieve disease of this or of neighboring 
organs, to occasion revulsion, to produce alvine evacuations, to 
destroy ascarides, and when for any reason it is desirable to 
spare the stomach. 

It is usually recommended, that the dose of medicines, 
introduced into the rectum for constitutional effects, should 
be two or three times greater than when taken into the stomach. 
In the case of active, soluble medicines, however, especially 
narcotics, it is most prudent to give the same amount by the 
rectum as by the mouth. 

Solid substances introduced into the rectum are termed 
suppositories ; they are best made with cocoa butter. Liquids 
introduced into the rectum are termed clysters, lavements, in- 
jections, and enemata. Soluble substances, when thus applied, 
are usually dissolved in water; insoluble substances are sus- 
pended in some mucilaginous vehicle. When the enema is to 
be retained, it should be from one to four fluidrachms in quan- 
tity. When it is introduced to act upon the bowels, its bulk 
may be from twelve to sixteen fluidounces for an adult, six to 
eight fluidounces for a youth of twelve, three to four fluid- 
ounces for a child of one to five years, and a fluidounce for a 
newly-born infant. Various instruments are used for the ad- 
ministration of enemata, as the pipe and bladder, the ordinary 
syringe, the self-injecting apparatus, and the elastic- bottle and 
tube, gaseous matters have also been thrown into the rectum 
—tobacco-smoke, for example,— -to relieve obstructions of the 
bowels. 

g. To the uririb-genital and vagino-uterine membranes, appli- 
cations are made exclusively for local purposes. Within a 
few years, intra-uterine medication has been a good deal em- 
ployed in local affections of the uterus, but, in the injection of 
fluids into the uterus, there is danger of peritonitis. 



THE CLASSIFICATION OF MEDICINES. 41 

3. To Serous Membranes. Irritating solutions are injected 
into the cavity of the tunica vaginalis testis, in hydrocele ; into 
the hernial sac, in hernia ; and even into the pleural cavity, in 
pleurisy, for the purpose of producing adhesion of the sides of 
the sacs. 

4. To Ulcers, Wounds, and Abscesses, medicines are ap- 
plied chiefly for their local effects. The absorbing power of 
these surfaces is to be kept in mind in such applications. 
Cysts are sometimes cured by injections, as of iodine into cysts 
of the thyroid gland. 

5. The injection of medicines into the Veins has been occa- 
sionally practised. The operation is, however, objectionable, 
from the danger of introducing air into the circulation; and it 
is seldom resorted to, except in the case of transfusion of blood 
after uterine hemorrhage. 

THE CLASSIFICATION OF MEDICINES. 

In treating the articles of the Materia Medica, some writers 
have classified them according to their natural properties, 
others according to their action on the human system. To the 
student of medicine, a classification based upon the sensible 
qualities or natural affinities of medicines can be of little value, 
since it associates articles of the most opposite remedial pro- 
perties. A classification of medicines founded on a similarity 
of action on the animal economy is more desirable and useful, 
and various arrangements of the Materia Medica have been 
attempted on this basis. They are all, to some extent, neces- 
sarily imperfect, owing partly to the diversified effects of medi- 
cines, and partly to our ignorance of the real nature of many 
of the modifications which they produce upon the tissues. 
Still, the advantages of some arrangement of this kind are so 
numerous, that it cannot well be dispensed with. 

The following classification will be found to include the more 
ordinary and generally received divisions of the Materia Medica, 
and to present the articles in convenient groups for therapeutic 
application. 



42 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



Medicines may be divided into- 



I. Those which have a special action on the 
nervous system, or Neurotics (from vevpov, 
a nerve). 



II. Those which have a special action on the 
secretions, or Eccritics (from «k P ut-i?, secre- 
tion). 



III. Those which modify the blood, or Hse- 
matics (from ai^o, the blood). 



IV. Those which act topically. 



f Narcotics-, 

Anaesthetics, 
I Antispasmodics, 
J Tonics, 
J Astringents, 

Stimulants, 
I Sedatives, 
[ Spinants. 
f Emetics, 

Cathartics, 

Diaphoretics, 

Diuretics, 

Blennorrhetics, 

Emmenagogues. 

Haematinics, 

Alteratives, 

Antacids. 
f Irritants, 
J Demulcents, 
1 Coloring Agents, 

Anthelmintics. 



opium. 43 

CLASS I.— NEUROTICS. 
ORDER I. — NARCOTICS. 

Narcotics (from vapneu, to stupefy), are medicines which 
impair or destroy nervous action. The primary effect of 
narcotics is, however, of a stimulant character, and their 
therapeutic efficacy is in a great degree due to this action. 
They are often administered, too, for a true narcotic or seda- 
tive influence on the motor, sensor, and intellectual functions. 
In diseased conditions, a marked tolerance of this class of 
medicines is established, and they can be exhibited in large 
doses without inducing narcosis. They are employed, chiefly, 
to remove muscular spasm, relieve pain, allay cerebral or 
spinal irritability, and procure sleep. 

When employed to relieve pain, they are termed anodynes; 
when employed to procure sleep, hypnotics or soporifics. 

When this class of medicines is resorted to for any length of 
time, with a view to a narcotic effect, their influence upon the 
system is much diminished, and constantly increased amounts 
are called for, to maintain the same effect. 

OPIUM. 

Opium (from ottoc, juice), is the concrete juice of the un- 
ripe capsules of Papaver somniferum (Nat. Ord. Papaveracese). 
The opium poppy is a native of Persia, but is cultivated in 
various parts of Asia, in Europe, and in the United States. 
It is an annual plant, with a round, leafy stem, from two to 
four feet or more in height, and large four-petaled flowers. 
There are two prominent varieties of this species : the black 
poppy, with violet-colored or red flowers, brown or blackish 
seeds, and globular capsules ; and the white poppy, with white 
flowers and seeds, and ovate capsules ; but these varieties run 
into each other under cultivation. 

The ripe capsules (papaver) are from an inch and a half 
to two inches or more in diameter, and contain a good deal of 



44 MATERIA MEDICA. 

opium. They are sometimes given to children in the form 
of syrup, and are applied externally as an anodyne emollient, 
in the form of decoction. The seeds are destitute of narcotic 
properties, and are used in Europe as an article of diet, and 
for the manufacture of an oil. 

Opium is obtained from incisions in the half-ripe capsules. 
The juice, which exudes from the incisions, is scraped off after 
drying, generally with more or less of the epidermis, and is 
sometimes sent into the market unmixed, as a choice variety. 
The opium of commerce is, however, commonly made by ad- 
ding the dried juice, obtained by incision, to an extract pre- 
pared from a decoction of the leaves, the whole being kneaded 
together, formed into cakes, and wrapped in fresh poppy 
leaves. 

The commerce of the United States is supplied with opium 
almost exclusively from Asiatic Turkey. This is known in 
the market as Smyrna or Turkey opium, and comes in irregu- 
larly rounded or flattened cakes, covered with the capsules of a 
species of Rumex. 

A large amount of opium is produced in British India, for 
consumption in India and China, but it is not found in our mar- 
kets. The Persian opium is another variety, but it does not 
reach the United States. Much opium was formerly obtained 
from Upper Egypt, in the neighborhood of Thebes, but its 
production was for a long time abandoned, though within the 
last thirty years again introduced. Successful attempts have 
been made with the cultivation of the poppy in England and 
other parts of Europe, which have resulted in the production 
of opium. During the civil war in the United States, a good 
deal of opium was made in the Southern States, from poppies 
of almost every variety ; samples of this opium have yielded 
about the same amount of morphia as that obtained from 
Turkey opium, and, even in New England, very good opium 
has lately been produced. The great source of our supply 
of opium has, however, long been, and still is, the Turkish 
dominions. 

The best opium should have a fine chestnut colour, an aro- 



opium. 45 

matic, strong, peculiar smell, and a dense consistence — becom- 
ing, however, harder and darker bj being kept. It should be 
moderately ductile, break with a deeply notched fracture, and, 
when drawn across white paper, should leave an interrupted 
stain. The taste is very bitter and somewhat acrid, and when 
chewed it excites irritation in the mouth and throat. It is 
inflammable, and imparts its virtues to water, alcohol, and 
diluted acids — but not to ether. 

Chemical Constituents. — Opium contains a great variety of 
chemical constituents, the most important of w x hich is the alka- 
loid Morphia, which exists chiefly in combination with an acid 
called meconic. Other principles found in opium are the alka- 
loids, narcotina, codeia, narceia, — paramorphia, papaverina, 
opiania, cryptopia, meconin, thebolactic acid, porphyroxin, 
gum, extractive, resin, oil, &c, and, in very minute amounts, 
alkaloids, termed meconidia, laudamia, codamia, pseudomorphia, 
apomorphia, lanthopia, rhoeadinia, and rhceagenia. Morphia is 
the principle upon which the narcotic effects of opium essen- 
tially depend, and, with its salts, is officinal in all the pharma- 
copoeias. 

Narcotina (C^H^NO^) exists in opium, chiefly in the free 
state, and, being insoluble in water, is left behind when the 
drug is macerated in this menstruum. It occurs in white, 
tasteless, inodorous, needle-like crystals, which are soluble in 
ether. At one time it was thought to possess a portion of the 
narcotic properties of opium, but it is now admitted to be inert 
in this respect. Its salts have been used in India as febrifuge 
tonics, in the treatment of intermittent fevers. 

Codeia (C 35 H 20 N0 5 ) exists in opium combined like morphia 
with meconic acid, and is extracted in the process for obtaining 
the latter alkaloid, from which it may be separated by an alka- 
line solution, which dissolves the morphia and leaves fhe codeia. 
It has been found to possess narcotic powers, with an especial 
direction to the great sympathetic nerve, and has been used in 
gastrodynia and dyspepsia, in the dose of half a grain or more. 
It is, however, too expensive an article for general use. 

Narceia is obtained from the mother liquor left after crys- 



4G MATERIA MEDICA. 

tallizing out the salts of morphia. It has been asserted that it 
possesses valuable medicinal properties, but experience in the 
United States has not confirmed the statements made in Europe 
as to its efficacy. 

Paramorphia, known also as thebaia, has been lately said to 
be a tetanizing toxic agent, analogous in its effects to strychnia. 

Papaverina is said to produce some soporific action, with a 
sedative influence on the pulse ; its strength is from one-eighth 
to one-fourth of that of morphia. 

Cryptopia is thought to produce an hypnotic influence, analo- 
gous to that of morphia, though a much feebler agent. The 
action of the derivative alkaloids of opium, must, however, be 
considered as a still unsettled subject, with the exception of 
that of morphia. 

Incompatible^. — Alkalies, and astringent infusions contain- 
ing tannic acid, are incompatible with opium ; the former pre- 
cipitate morphia from its soluble combination, while the latter 
form with it an insoluble compound. Many of the mineral 
salts are also decomposed by opium, as the acetate of lead, 
(meconate of lead and acetate of morphia being formed when 
these articles are prescribed together). 

Tests. — T. of the chloride of iron strikes a red color with 
meconic acid ; nitric acid colors morphia red ; sesquichlorid^of 
iron colors it dark blue ; iodic acid colors it reddish brown, and, 
if starch is added, forms a blue compound; ammonia precipi- 
tates it from solution ; and tannic acid forms with it an insolu- 
ble precipitate. 

Physiological Effects. — When taken in a medicinal dose, 
opium at first moderately excites the circulation, increases the 
temperature of the skin, and agreeably exhilarates the intel- 
lectual functions. The stage of excitement is, however, of 
short duration. The pulse. soon sinks below the normal stan- 
dard, susceptibility to external impressions is diminished, the 
faculties of the mind become confused, and consciousness is 
finally lost in sleep. All the secretions are diminished, except 
that of perspiration, which is heightened ; muscular contraction 
is lessened ; and in some persons nausea and vomiting are pro- 



opium. 47 

duced ; occasionally an itching and miliary eruption of the skin 
occur. 

When a poisonous dose is taken, the stage of excitement is 
wanting ; giddiness and stupor rapidly come on, with diminution 
in the frequency, though not in the fulness of the pulse ; and 
these symptoms are soon followed by an irresistible tendency 
to sleep, and finally by coma. The breathing is heavy and 
stertorous, the pulse slow and oppressed, and the pupils are 
contracted. If relief is not afforded, the pulse sinks, the mus- 
cular system becomes relaxed, and death ensues, preceded 
sometimes in children by violent convulsions. 

In cases of poisoning from opium or its preparations, the 
stomach should be immediately evacuated by the stomach- 
pump, if possible, or by emetics. The direct emetics are best 
for this purpose, as the sulphate of zinc (20 to 30 grains), or 
the sulphate of copper (5 to 10 grains). A large teaspoonful 
of mustard-flour, or a tablespoonful of powdered alum, answers 
very well as an emetic. Every means should be taken to arouse 
the patient from his lethargy ; cold affusions, counter-irritation 
to the nape of the neck and extremities, flagellation to the palms 
of the hands and soles of the feet, and, best of all, when the 
coma is profound, the electro-magnetic battery, constitute our 
chief resources in this emergency. Artificial inflation of the 
lungs is also to be practised. The use of strong coffee has 
proved efficacious ; and stimuli may be used to support the 
system. Of late years, it has been found that belladonna 
exercises a powerful influence as a physiological antidote 
against narcotism from opium, and the administration of this 
substance by the stomach, or, still better, the hypodermic 
injection of a solution of atropia, is one of the most avail- 
able remedies that can be employed in poisoning from opium. 
The poisonous action of opium appears to be entirely di- 
rected to the nervous system, no local lesions being found after 
death. 

Opium is largely used as an habitual narcotic in Oriental 
countries, and to some extent in Europe and. the United States. 
The effects of indulgence in this species of intoxication are of 



48 MATERIA MEDICA. 

the most destructive character upon both the physical and men- 
tal faculties. 

Medicinal Uses. — Of all the articles of the Materia Medica, 
opium enjoys the widest range of therapeutic application. 
From its properties of assuaging pain and inducing sleep, it is 
useful in almost all diseases ; and it is positively contraindicated 
only where there is a tendency to apoplexy or coma, or where 
there exists an idiosyncrasy with respect to its effects. As an 
anodyne in painful and malignant ulcers and severe injuries, 
we have no substitute for opium ; and, as an hypnotic in mania- 
a-potu, and in the wakefulness and cerebral irritability of fever, 
mania, &c, it is equally invaluable. From its power of relaxing 
muscular spasm, it is our most efficient resource in tetanus, colic, 
and spasm of the stomach, bowels, biliary ducts, ureters, neck 
of the bladder, &c. In dysentery and cholera it forms the basis 
of every variety of treatment, partly for its diaphoretic effects, 
but principally for its action in arresting both the secretions 
and peristaltic motion of the bowels. For the relief of the 
cough of pulmonary affections, opium has no equal in the Ma- 
teria Medica. In cerebro-spinal meningitis and in puerperal 
fever, it has been found more successful than any other remedy. 
In gastric irritability, colica pictonum, peritonitis, rheumatism, 
gout, neuralgia, typhus, gangrene, convulsive diseases, diabe- 
tes, &c, it is also constantly employed. 

Administration. — The ordinary dose of opium as an ano- 
dyne and hypnotic is one grain. Much larger doses are, how- 
ever, called for in many diseases ; and when it is administered 
for a length of time, as a narcotic, the dose must be gradually 
increased. To infants and very old persons, it is to be given 
with great caution. 

Opium is administered in the form of powder or pill. It is 
easily powdered when thoroughly dried, and the pills, as well 
as all the other preparations of opium, should always be'made 
from the powder. The powder is sometimes used endermically, 
and is sprinkled on irritable ulcers. In the form of supposito- 
ries it is also applied to the rectum. 

The following are the officinal preparations of opium : 



opium. 49 

Pilule Opii {Pills of Opium). Sixty grains of opium, 
made into sixty pills, with twelve grains of soap. Each pill 
contains a grain of opium. They are kept in the shops, as 
hard old opium pills are sometimes preferred in cases of irrita- 
ble stomach. 

Pilulje Saponis Composite [Compound Pills of Soap). 
Sixty grains of opium made into a pilular mass, with half a 
troyounee of soap. Useful for the administration of small 
doses. One grain of opium is contained in five of the 
mass. 

Coxfectio Opii {Confection of Opium). Opium beaten up 
with honey and spices (opium, 270 grains, aromatic powder, 6 
troyounces, and clarified honey, 14 troyounces). Dose, gr. 
xxx vj. 

Extractum Opii {Extract of Opium). Made by evapora- 
ting the aqueous solution. Dose, gr. J. 

Trochisci Glycyrrhiza et Opii {Troches of Liquorice 
and Opium). Much used in Philadelphia under the name of 
Wistars cough lozenges. Made with opium, half a troyounee, 
liquorice, gum arabic, and sugar, each 10 troyounces, and oil 
of anise, a fluidrachm. The mass is to be divided into troches, 
each weighing six grains. Each troche contains about one- 
tenth of a grain of opium. 

Emplastrum Opii {Opium Plaster). Made by mixing extr. 
opium, a troyounee, with three fluidounces of water, and evapo- 
rating to a fluidounce and a half; and adding this to Burgundy 
pitch, 3 troyounces, and plaster of lead, 12 troyounces, previ- 
ously melted together. 

Pulvis Ipecacuanha Compositus {Compound Powder of 
Ipecacuanha). This powder, well known under the name of 
Dover s Powder, is made by rubbing up sixty grains of opium 
and ipecacuanha each, with a troyounee of sulphate of potassa, 
the salt being employed to promote the minute division and 
thorough intermingling of the opium and ipecacuanha. Do- 
ver's powder is a most valuable anodyne diaphoretic, exten- 
sively prescribed in diarrhoea, dysentery, rheumatism, bronchi- 

4 



50 MATERIA MEDICA. 

lis, pneumonia, &c. Dose, gr. x, containing gr. j of opium 
and ipecacuanha each. 

Ti.vctura Opii {Tincture of Opium). Laudanum. Pre- 
pared by macerating two troyounces and a half of powdered 
opium for three days in a pint of water, then adding a pint of 
alcohol, and after three days of further maceration, introdu- 
cing the whole into a percolator, and adding diluted alcohol 
until two pints of tincture are obtained. This is the most 
commonly employed of all the officinal preparations of opium. 
When long kept, particularly if exposed to the air, it becomes 
thick from evaporation of the alcohol, and its strength is much 
increased. Dose, Itjxiij, or 25 drops, equivalent to a grain of 
opium. There are 120 drops in f5j. Laudanum is much used 
in the form of enema. 

Tinctura Opii Camphorata [Camphorated Tincture of 
Opium). Paregoric Elixir. Prepared by macerating sixty 
grains of opium in diluted alcohol Oij, with benzoic acid, sixty 
grains, oil of anise, a fluidrachm, clarified honey, two troyoun- 
ces, and camphor, forty grains. Dose, fSss, or a tablespoonful, 
containing rather less than a grain of opium. A favorite pre- 
paration for children. 5 to 20 drops may be given to an in 
fant. 

Tinctura Opii Deodorata (Deodorized Tincture of Opi- 
um) contains the same proportion of opium as laudanum. In 
preparing it, a liquid watery extract of opium is first made, 
which is then washed with ether. The ether is afterwards 
separated, the residue dissolved in water, and mixed with 
enough alcohol to preserve it. Two troyounces and a half of 
opium are macerated with half a pint of water and expressed ; 
the operation is twice repeated with the same quantity of 
water ; the expressed liquids are mixed, and the mixture is 
evaporated to four fluidounces, and shaken, when cold, with 
half a pint of ether ; the ethereal solution, when it has sepa- 
rated by standing, is poured off, and the remaining liquid is 
evaporated, until all traces of the ether have disappeared ; this 
is mixed with twenty fiuidounces of water and filtered; water 
enough is added to make the filtered liquid measure a pint and 



OPIUM. 51 

a half ; lastly, half a pint of alcohol is added, and the liquids 
are mixed together. The narcotina as well as the odorous and 
many other injurious ingredients of opium are thus got rid of. 
A new but valuable preparation. Dose, the same as that of 
laudanum. 

Tinctura Opii Acetata (Acetated Tincture of Opium). 
Prepared by macerating two troyounces of opium, in vinegar, 
foxij, and alcohol Oss. Dose, TT[x, or 20 drops. 

Acetum Opii ( Vinegar of Opium). Black Drop. Pre- 
pared by macerating powdered opium, five troyounces. nutmeg, 
a troyounce, saffron, one hundred and fifty grains, sugar, eight 
troyounces, in a pint of diluted acetic acid, and afterwards per- 
colating with the same menstruum, till two pints are obtained. 
Black drop is twice the strength of laudanum, and is to be 
given in half the dose of that preparation. 

Vixum Opii (Wine of Opium). Sydenham's Laudanum. 
Prepared by macerating two troyounces of opium in Sherry 
wine Oj, with cinnamon and cloves. Dose, the same as that of 
laudanum. 

Morphia and its Preparations. — Morphia exists in opium 
chiefly in combination with meconic acid. The meconate 01 
morphia is separated from the other constituents of the drug, 
by successive macerations in water. Alcohol and solution 01 
ammonia are then added to the watery solution, by which the 
salt is decomposed, the ammonia precipitating the morphia, and 
the alcohol seizing the coloring matter as soon as it is sepa- 
rated from the alkali. The crystals of morphia, which are 
formed, are afterwards boiled in alcohol, and the solution is 
filtered through animal charcoal. 

Morphia (C 34 H 19 N0 6 ) occurs in colorless rhombic crystals, 
which are inflammable and dissipated by heat. It is without 
smell, but very bitter ; scarcely soluble in water, ether, or 
chloroform, but soluble in boiling alcohol. From its insolu- 
bility, it is not employed medicinally, except in combination 
with acids. 

Morphine Sulphas (Sulphate of Morphia), Morphia Ace- 
tas (Acetate of Morphia), Morphine Murias (Muriate of Mor- 



52 MATERIA MEDICA. 

phia), arc the officinal salts of morphia, made by saturating 
the alkali with sulphuric, acetic, and muriatic acids. They 
arc all freely soluble in water, and produce analogous medi- 
cinal effects, the sulphate being, however, most employed in 
this country. The salts of morphia possess the anodyne, hyp- 
notic, antispasmodic, and diaphoretic properties of opium, and 
are considered less apt to produce headache and nausea, or 
other unpleasant effect. They are peculiarly adapted to the 
hypodermic and endermic methods of application. Dose, one- 
sixth to one-fourth of a grain. A Solution of the Sulphate of 
Morphia is officinal, and is much prescribed {Liquor Morphia? 
Sulphatis). It contains one grain to f§j of water. Dose, 
f5j-ij. The bimeconate of morphia has also been employed. 

CHLORAL. 

This interesting compound, although discovered by Liebig in 
1832, has attracted attention as a therapeutic agent, only since 
the statements of Liebrich, a physician of Prussia, published 
in May, 1869. It is prepared by passing dried chlorine gas 
through pure anhydrous alcohol, afterwards heating with con- 
centrated sulphuric acid, the crude chloral which is separated 
being rectified over lime : the chlorine takes the place of 
hydrogen, in the alcohol, and forms also hydrochloric acid. 
Thus, C 4 H 6 2 +8C1=C 4 C1 S 0+H0 {Choral) +5UCI Anhy- 
drous chloral is a limpid, oily, colorless liquid, with a fatty 
taste and a strong caustic smell, producing lachrymation. It 
has a sp. gr. of 1.502, a boiling point of 203°F., and mixes in 
all proportions with water, alcohol, and ether. With water it 
combines to form a hydrate, which crystallizes in snow-white 
needles, very soluble in water; and as pure chloral readily 
undergoes decomposition, the more stable hydrate is the form 
which is employed for medicinal use. It is incompatible with 
the alkalies. 

Effects and Uses.— Chloral, in doses of from 20 to 40 grains, 
is a most reliable hypnotic (second only to opium in this par- 
ticular), with no influence on the secretion from the bowels, and 



LACTUCARIUM. 53 

a slight diuretic action. Its effect in relieving pain and spasm 
is often marked, though less constant than its hypnotic influ- 
ence. The pulse is usually reduced in frequency under its use. 
Generally, no unpleasant effects follow its employment, though 
occasionally slight headache and even nausea supervene. It is 
asserted that chloral is decomposed in the blood, with the libe- 
ration of chloroform, but this is scarcely probable, and its effects 
are certainly not identical with those of chloroform. 

Chloral has been found a very valuable hypnotic remedy in 
all the forms of insomnia, in hysterical excitement, in acute 
mania, and in delirium tremens. As an anodyne, in neuralgia, 
gastralgia, and colic, especially lead-colic, it has been also used 
with advantage. In delirium tremens, and many causes of in- 
somnia, frequent doses are often required to induce sleep, and 
less than 20 grains will not produce any hypnotic influence. 

Chloral is administered only in aqueous solution, and the 
addition of mucilage or syrup, particularly of the syrup of 
orange-peel will disguise its unpleasant taste. It is not well 
adapted to the hypodermic method, as painful phlegmons some- 
times follow its use. 



LACTUCARIUM. 

Lactucarium (sometimes called lettuce-opium), is the con- 
crete juice of Lactuca sativa, the Garden Lettuce (Nat. Ord. 
Cichoraceae), and is obtained from incisions in the plant, in 
the stem, during the period of inflorescence. Another and 
inferior mode of procuring it is by expression and evaporation 
of the expressed juice. Two varieties are found in the mar- 
ket : English lactucarium, which occurs in small, irregular 
lumps, of a reddish-brown color externally, and of an opiate 
smell, and a bitter, unpleasant taste, and Grerman lactucarium, 
(which is inferior), in four-sided pieces, from an inch to an 
inch and a half thick, with one side convex and the three other 
sides flat, the convex surface darkish-brown, and the flat sur- 
faces light yellowish-brown. An active principle termed lactu- 
Hn is said to have been isolated. Lactucarium, prepared from 



54 MATERIA MEDICA. 

the juice of the Lactuca elongata, American or wild lettuce, has 
been found to possess effects similar to those of the officinal 
article. 

Effects and Uses. — Lactucarium possesses the anodyne and 
hypnotic qualities of opium with a slight sedative action on the 
circulation, but it is an uncertain preparation. It may be 
given where opium disagrees, from idiosyncrasy in the patient. 
Dose, gr. x. The syrup is the most eligible form of adminis- 
tration. It is made by rubbing a troyounce of lactucarium with 
sufficient diluted alcohol, to bring it to a syrupy consistence, 
then percolating with diluted alcohol till half a pint of tinc- 
ture has passed, afterwards evaporating to two fluidounces, and 
finally mixing the tincture with fourteen fluidounces of syrup. 
Dose, two or three fluidrachms. 



BELLADONNA. 
Belladonna? Folium, Belladonna Leaf: Belladonnas Radix, Belladonna Root. 

Atropa Belladonna, or Deadly Nightshade (Nat. Ord. So- 
lanacese), is a European perennial plant, with herbaceous, 
branched, downy stems, about three or four feet high, large 
ovate leaves, of a dull-green color, and drooping, bell-shaped, 
purple flowers. The whole plant possesses narcotic properties, 
but the leaves and root only are officinal. When fresh, the 
leaves have an unpleasant smell, and a sweetish, subacrid, 
slightly nauseous taste. When dried they retain this taste, 
but have scarcely any odor. The dried root is long, round, 
from one to several inches in thickness, branched, of a reddish- 
brown color, of little odor, and a feeble, sweetish taste. 

The narcotic properties of belladonna depend on the pres- 
ence of an alkaloid termed atropia, which is found in all parts 
of the plant. It is officinal, and is prepared from the root, bv 
exhaustion with alcohol, afterwards adding sulphuric acid, pre- 
cipitating with potassa, dissolving the atropia in chloroform, and 
then evaporating the chloroform. Atropia (C 3 ,H 93 N0 6 ) is a 
white, crystalline, odorless substance with a bitter, acrid taste, 



BELLADONNA. 55 

soluble in alcohol and ether, more so in chloroform, and par- 
tially soluble in water. It is a most energetic poison, pro- 
ducing analogous- effects to those of belladonna, but much more 
powerful. Latterly, atropia has been a good deal employed medi- 
cinally as a substitute for belladonna, on account of its greater 
certainty. The dose to begin with for internal use is about one- 
thirtieth of a grain in solution. As a collyrium, to dilate the 
pupil, a solution of a grain in four fluidrachms of water, with a 
few drops of acetic acid, may be employed, and a drop of the 
solution applied to the eye. A tincture (atropia gr. j, diluted 
alcohol fgss) is used for the same purpose — dose$ for internal 
use, 8 drops. A sulphate of atropia and an ointment are also 
employed. 

Physiological Effects of Belladonna. — In small doses the 
effects of belladonna are those of an anodyne narcotic, with 
little or no action on the circulation, or on any of the secre- 
tions, except a peculiar dryness of the mouth and throat. In 
larger doses it causes dilatation of the pupils, loss of vision, 
giddiness, constriction of the throat, difficulty of deglutition 
and articulation, marked diuresis, nausea, with occasional 
vomiting and .purging, and sometimes a red eruption. When 
excessive doses are taken, these symptoms are aggravated, and 
terminate in maniacal delirium, coma, syncope, and death, 
often preceded by convulsions. Dissections show that the 
action of the poison is not confined to the cerebro-spinal system, 
but that it is attended by inflammation of the digestive organs. 
Cases of poisoning from belladonna are to be treated by evacu- 
ation of the stomach, cathartics, and, if coma occurs, by the 
electro-magnetic battery. Opium may be given as a physiolo- 
gical antidote, or hypodermic injections of solutions of the salts 
of morphia maybe administered. Lime-water and the alkaline 
solutions have been found useful. Applied to the eyebrow, 
belladonna causes dilatation of the pupil. 

Medicinal Uses. — Belladonna is one of our most highly- 
esteemed anodyne and antispasmodic remedies. It is destitute 
of hypnotic effect, and, on the contrary, has a tendency to 
occasion wakefulness. In the treatment of neuralgia it ranks 



56 MATERIA MEDICA. 

at the head of the narcotics, and is extensively employed both 
alone and in combination with the sulphate of quinia. It 
should be given until dryness of the throat, dilatation of the 
pupil, and some disorder of vision are produced. Its powers of 
allaying spasm have been found very efficacious in the treat- 
ment of whooping-cough and asthma. As a discutient of can- 
cerous indurations, it has enjoyed some reputation, but any 
good effects in these cases, have probably been owing to an 
anodyne and not a resolvent influence. In mania, and many 
diseases of the cerebro-spinal system, especially epilepsy, it has 
been occasionally employed with advantage. Its action on the 
kidneys renders it useful in chronic Bright's disease; and by 
its influence in relieving irritability of the bladder, it is proba- 
bly the best remedy for the nocturnal incontinence of urine of 
children. In constipation, iritis, and as a prophylactic against 
scarlatina, it is also resorted to. As a preventive of scarlatina, 
it was originally proposed from its power of affecting the throat 
and skin, and respectable authority is not wanting in confirma- 
tion of its efficacy in this particular. It is used, too, in cases 
of poisoning by opium. 

As a topical remedy, belladonna is employed principally to 
produce dilatation of the pupil in operations for cataract, iritis, 
and prolapsus iridis. It is applied in the form of extract or 
ointment to the eyebrows, temple, or conjunctiva, and produces 
dilatation in a few minutes. The topical application of bella- 
donna is also resorted to with advantage to relieve rigidity of 
the os uteri in labor. 

Administration. — The dose of the powder of the root or 
leaves is gr. j, to be repeated and increased till dryness of the 
throat, dilatation of the pupil, and dimness of vision are pro- 
duced. It is most frequently exhibited in the form of extract 
(or inspissated juice) of the leaves. Dose, \ to \ a grain, to be 
repeated and increased. The tincture (four troyounces of the 
leaves to diluted alcohol Oij— dose, 15 to 30 drops) and the 
alcoholic extract are also officinal. For external use, a plaster 
{Emplastrum Belladonna;), made by mixing a troyounce of 
the extract and two troyounces of melted resin plaster, and an 



STRAMONIUM. 57 

ointment (Unguentum Belladonna?), made by rubbing sixty 
grains of the extract first with water half a fluidraclim, and 
then with lard, a trot/ounce, are employed. 



STRAMONIUM. 

Stramonii Folium, Stramonium Leaf; Stramonii Semen, Stramonium Seed. 

Fig. 4. 




Datura Stramonium, or Thorn Apple, sometimes called 
Jamestown weed (Nat. Ord. Solanacese), is an annual indigen- 
ous plant, which grows very abundantly in waste grounds in all 
parts of the world. It has a forked, branching stem, from 
three to six feet high, ovate, toothed leaves, large funnel-shaped 
white or purplish flowers, which appear in midsummer, and 
ovate capsules, filled with numerous kidney-shaped, brownish- 
black seeds. The odor of the plant is strong and disagreeable, 
and its taste bitter and nauseous. It loses these properties 
very much when dried, but the process does not appear to 
weaken its narcotic qualities. The leaves and seeds are 
officinal, but the seeds are most powerful from containing most 
daturia. 

The active principle of Stramonium is an alkaloid termed 



58 MATERIA MEDICA. 

daturia, which possesses properties analogous to those of 

atropia. 

The physiological effects of stramonium are closely allied to 
those of belladonna, with a more marked action on the secre- 
tions. From its common occurrence in every part of the 
country, cases of poisoning from this weed are very frequent, 
particularly with children, who are fond of swallowing the 
seeds. The treatment laid down for the relief of poisoning 
from belladonna is applicable to these cases. 

The medicinal uses of stramonium are similar to those of 
belladonna. It is prescribed internally in neuralgia, whooping- 
cough, mania, and epilepsy; and in spasmodic asthma the 
leaves have been smoked with great relief. The practice is, 
however, dangerous in aged or apoplectic persons. Topically, 
stramonium is used by oculists to dilate the pupils and diminish 
the sensibility of the retina to light ; and it is an excellent ano- 
dyne application, in the form of cataplasm and ointment, to 
inflammatory tumors, irritable ulcers, bed sores, and hemorr- 
hoids. 

Administration. — The dose of the powdered leaves is gr. ij ; 
of the seeds, a grain, to be repeated and gradually increased 
till narcotic effects are produced. Dose of the extract of the 
leaves (an inspissated juice), and of the alcoholic extract, gr. j, 
to commence with. The tincture {four troyounces of the seeds 
to diluted alcohol Oij, dose 20 to 40 drops), and the ointment 
made by mixing the extract with lard (according to the formula 
for ointment of belladonna), are also officinal. 

HYOSCYAMUS — HENBANE. 

Hyoscvami Folium, Henbane Leaf; Hyoscyami Semen, Henbane Seed. 

Hyoscyamus niger, or Henbane {Nat. Ord. Solanacese), is a 
native of Europe, and is naturalized in the northern parts of 
the United States. It grows to the height of about two feet, 
with large, sinuated, pale-green leaves, and flowers of a straw- 
yellow color. The whole plant has narcotic properties ; but the 



HENBANE. 



59 



leaves and seeds only are officinal. Henbane should be 
gathered when in flower ; and, when fresh, has a strong, offen- 



Fig. 3. 




sive narcotic odor, and a mucilaginous, unpleasant, slightly 
acrid taste; but it loses most of these qualities in drying. 
The seeds are of a yellowish-gray color, with something of the 
odor of the plant, and have an oleaginous, bitter taste. The 
active properties of the plant depend upon a peculiar alkaloid 
principle, termed hyoscyamia, nearly identical in its action 
with atropia, but more soluble in water. 

Effects and Uses. — The effects of henbane on the system 
much resemble those of belladonna. They differ from those of 
opium in their comparatively feeble hypnotic effect, and in 
their relaxing influence on the bowels. In large doses it causes 
dilatation of the pupil, delirium, loss of vision, &c. In cases of 
poisoning, the same treatment is to be pursued as for bella- 



60 MATERIA .MEDICA. 

donna and stramonium. Henbane may be used remedially, in 
the same diseases, as belladonna and stramonium, than which it 
is, however, less active. It has been administered also, from 
the earliest days, to palliate cough, where opium is objectionable 
from its constipating or nauseating influence. Externally, it 
is employed in the form of cataplasm or fomentation to painful 
swellings and ulcers ; and it may be used to dilate the pupil, in 
the same manner as belladonna. 

Dose of the powdered leaves, gr. v to gr. x ; of the seeds, 
somewhat less. The extract (an inspissated juice of the leaves) 
is the preferable form of administration ; it is of a dark olive 
color, and extremely variable quality. Dose, gr. v to gr. x. 
Tincture (four troyounces to diluted alcohol Oij), dose f5j. An 
alcoholic extract and a fluid extract (dose 10-20 drops), are also 
officinal. 



TABACUM — TOBACCO. 

Nicotiana Tabacum, or Virginian tobacco (Nat. Ord. Sola- 
naceas), is a native of the warm countries of America, but is 
now extensively cultivated in most parts of the world. It is 
an annual plant, growing to the height of from three to six feet, 
with large, oblong, pointed, hairy, pale-green leaves, and light- 
greenish, funnel-shaped flowers, expanding above into rose-color- 
ed segments. The dried leaves are the portion used. They 
have a yellowish-brown color, a strong, peculiar, narcotic odor, 
and a bitter, nauseous taste. The darker-colored leaves are 
the strongest. 

The virtues of tobacco are imparted to alcohol and water, 
and depend on the presence of an alkaloid called nicotia 
(C 10 H 17 N), which is found in all parts of the plant. It is a 
colorless, oily, volatilizable, alkaline liquid, highly soluble in 
water, alcohol, ether, and chloroform, of a feeble odor, when 
cold, but irritant, when heated, of an acrid, burning taste, 
and is a most energetic poison. From the dried leaves are 
also obtained a concrete volatile oil, termed nicotianin, which 
is probably the odorous principle of the plant, and an empy- 



TOBACCO. 61 

reumatic oil, which gives the peculiar smell to old tobacco 
pipes. Both of these principles are poisonous. 

Physiological Effects. — On persons unaccustomed to its use, 
tobacco, in small doses, produces a slight sedative action, with 
nausea, swimming in the head, increased flow from the kidneys, 
and sometimes, also, from the bowels. In larger doses, it in- 
duces vomiting and purging, a sensation of sinking at the pit 
of the stomach, giddiness, disorder of vision, the pupils, how- 
ever, being little affected, depression of the circulation, great 
relaxation of the muscular system, coldness of the surface, 
and other symptoms of prostration; and, when excessive doses 
have been taken, these symptoms become more violent, and 
are followed by convulsions, paralysis, coma, and death. 
Cases of poisoning are to be treated on the principles appli- 
cable to other cases of narcotic poisoning ; the diffusible 
stimuli are to be freely given. 

The habitual use of tobacco as an exhilarant is well known. 
When taken to excess, it frequently develops disorders of 
the stomach, heart, and nervous system. 

Medicinal Uses. — Tobacco is employed in medicine, chiefly 
w T ith a view to its action on the muscular system — its ano- 
dyne and hypnotic properties being relatively feeble. In 
various spasmodic diseases, particularly in colic, ileus, stran- 
gulated hernia, constipation from spasmodic constriction, te- 
tanus, spasm of the neck of the bladder and the glottis, 
and asthma, it is a remedy of great value. It has been 
also successfully applied to the treatment of poisoning by 
strychnia. Internally, tobacco is to be employed with cau- 
tion, as it occasionally acts with dangerous energy. Stupes 
of an infusion of tobacco, (half an ounce to a pint of water), 
have been found an efficacious application to wounds, in 
cases of traumatic tetanus. 

Administration. — Tobacco is not given by the stomach 
owing to its emetic properties. It is usually administered by 
the rectum, in the form of infusion (5j — Qj of boiling water, 
one-third to be given at a dose,) or tobacco-smoke may be in- 
troduced into the rectum. It may also be. smoked for meaici- 



02 MATERIA MEDICA. 

rial effect, or applied locally in the form of cataplasm. Oint- 
ment of Tobacco {Unguentum Tab aci y ) is made by mixing a 
watery extract, prepared from half a troy ounce of finely pow- 
dered tobacco, with eight troyounces of lard ; it is a useful ap- 
plication to indolent ulcers and some cutaneous affections, par- 
ticularly tinea capitis. The Wine of Tobacco {Vinum Tabaci) 
is made by macerating a troy ounce of tobacco in a pint of 
Sherry wine for seven days ; it is occasionally used as a diu- 
retic — dose 20-30 drops. The Oil {Oleum Tabaci,) is some- 
times mixed with ointments. 



LOBELIA. 

Lobelia inflata, or Indian tobacco {Nat. Orel. Lobeliacese.) is 
a very common annual or biennial indigenous plant, growing to 
the height of from six inches to two feet, with a fibrous root, 
an erect, hairy stem, ovate, serrated leaves, pale-blue flowers, 
and ovoid, inflated capsules. It flowers from July till the ap- 
pearance of frost, and should be gathered about August and 
September. All parts of it are active, but the leaves and 
capsules are most so. It has an unpleasant smell, and, when 
chewed, an acrid, burning, nauseous taste, which is at first 
faint, but soon becomes excessive. Water and alcohol extract 
the virtues of lobelia, which contain a volatile alkaloid princi- 
ple, lobelina, analogous to nicotia. 

Physiological Effects. — Lobelia produces effects on the sys- 
tem analogous to those of tobacco, acting in small doses as a 
sedative, nauseant, diuretic, and diaphoretic ; in larger doses 
as an energetic emetic ; and in still larger doses as an active 
acro-narcotic poison, resembling tobacco in its influence. It 
was employed by the aborigines,' and has always been a popular 
empirical remedy. 

Medicinal L $es. — Lobelia is sometimes classed among eme- 
tics, but its action in this particular is too violent for its safe 
administration. It is chiefly employed, by regular practition- 
ers, with a view to its antispasmodic properties, for the relief 
of asthma, angina pectoris, and cardiac dyspnoea, and is given 



LOBELIA. 



63 



in small doses, gradually increased, until headache or nausea 
ensue. It may also be used as an enema, to fulfil the same 
indications as tobacco. 



Fig. 6. 




Administration. — Lobelia is given in substance, tincture, 
and infusion. The dose of the powder as an antispasmodic, 
is gr. j to gr. iij ; as an emetic, gr. v to gr. xx. The best 
form, particularly in asthma, is the tincture (four troyounces 
to diluted alcohol Oij), which may be given in the quantity of 
f5j, to be repeated as occasion may require. 



64 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



A.CBTUM LoBELiiE {Vinegar of Lobelia), is a good prepa- 
ration, in which the alkaloid is fixed by the acetic acid; it 
is of the same strength, and may be given in the same doses as 
the tincture. 



CONIUM — HEMLOCK. 



Conium maculatum, or Hemlock (Nat Ord. Apiaceae), is a 
biennial European plant, naturalized in many parts of the 
United States. Its stem is erect, from three to five feet high, 



Fig. 7. 




round, smooth, and often spotted with purple. The leaves 
are large, bright-green, and repeatedly compound ; the flowers 
are small, white, and arranged in umbels, appearing in June 
and July. The whole plant is narcotic and virulent, and has 
a fetid, heavy odor. The leaves are the only portion used in 
medicine. They should be gathered when the plant has done 
flowering, and kept in vessels from which the air and light 



HEMLOCK. 65 

are excluded. Plants grown in sunny situations and warm 
climates are most active. When well preserved, the dried 
leaves have a fine green color, and the characteristic smell and 
bitterish taste of the fresh herb, though less powerfully. 

The active principle of hemlock is a peculiar alkaloid, 
termed conia (C 16 H 15 N), which exists in larger proportion in 
the seeds than the leaves. It is a colorless, oily fluid, spar- 
ingly soluble in water, and freely so in alcohol and ether ; 
and is a highly energetic poison even in very small doses. 

Physiological Effects. — The action of hemlock in small me- 
dicinal doses is considered to be alterative and even tonic. Re- 
solvent properties, in cases of glandular enlargement, have 
been attributed to it, and atrophy of the mammae and testicles 
is said to have resulted from its continued employment. It is 
usually classed with the sedative narcotics, paralyzing the 
nerves of motion rather than those of sensation. In large 
doses, it causes nausea, vertigo, dimness of vision, relaxation of 
the muscles ; and in poisonous quantities, dilatation of the 
pupils, difficulty of speech, delirium or coma, paralysis, and 
finally convulsions and death. It has no direct hypnotic effect. 
In cases of poisoning, alcoholic stimuli are to be given. 

Medicinal Uses. — It is employed chiefly as a general and 
topical anodyne, t6 relieve the pain of malignant tumors ; and, 
even if destitute of the deobstruent powers which have been 
ascribed to it, it certainly exerts a remarkable palliative influ- 
ence upon painful chronic indurations. It has been also re- 
commended as an antispasmodic in whooping-cough, asthma, 
and especially tetanus ; as an anodyne in neuralgia ; as an ad- 
juvant to other remedies in mania, especially melancholia ; to 
relieve irritability of the sexual organs ; and it is used exter- 
nally as a cataplasm to cancers and other irritable ulcers. Co- 
nium is the cicuta of Hippocrates, Gralen, and Pliny, and is 
supposed to have been the poison administered to Socrates and 
Phocion. 

Administration. — The officinal preparations of this medicine 
are the powder, tincture, and extract. The dose of the 'pow- 
dered leaves is gr. iij to gr. iv, twice a day, to be rapidly in- 

5 



66 MATERIA MEDICA. 

creased, till vertigo or nausea ensue. The extract (inspissated 
juice) may be given in the same doses ; it is an uncertain pre- 
paration, and should be rejected unless it have a strong and 
penetrating odor. A tincture (four troyounces to diluted alco- 
hol Oij, dose f5ss, f5j)> an alcoholic extract, and a fluid extract 
are also used; of the fluid extract (a fluidounce of which 
contains a troyounce of the leaves,) the dose is four or five 
minims. All the preparations made from the dried leaves are, 
however, comparatively feeble, and the best form in which to 
prescribe conium is the Succu's Conii, (which is prepared by 
adding one volume of alcohol to three volumes of the recently 
expressed juice of the fresh plant,) dose f5i-iv. 



ACONITUM — ACONITE. 
Aconiti Folium, Aconite Leaf; Aconiti Radix, Aconite Root. 

Aconitum Napellus, Aconite, Wolfsbane, or Monkshood 
(Nat. Ord. Ranunculacese,) is a native of the mountainous 
parts of Europe. It is a perennial, herbaceous plant, with a 
fusiform root, a simple erect stem, growing usually to the 
height of from two to four feet, palmate, deeply cleft leaves, 
and large, dark, violet-blue flowers. The leaves and ROOT 
are both used, but the root is the more powerful. They have 
little or no smell ; but their taste is bitterish and acrid, and 
when chewed they occasion a peculiar feeling of tingling and 
numbness, in the tongue and interior of the mouth. These 
properties are impaired by long keeping, and the plant loses 
its medicinal efficacy. Other species of aconite possess similar 
poisonous qualities to those of the A. Napellus. The active prin- 
ciple of aconite is an alkaloid named aconitia, which is officinal. 

Physiological Effects.— Taken in small doses, aconite pro- 
duces a sensation of numbness in the head, face, and extremi- 
ties, with a sedative action on the circulation, and more or less 
nausea and muscular debility. In larger doses, its effects are 
those of an acro-narcotic poison ; gastric irritation, purging, 
contraction or expansion of the pupils, numbness or paralysis 



ACONITE. 67 

of the limbs, syncope, convulsions, and death. In case of poi- 
soning, the stomach is to be thoroughly evacuated, and stimu- 
lants, externally and internally, are to be freely administered. 

Medicinal Uses. — Aconite is a powerful and valuable remedy, 
in the treatment of neuralgia, chronic rheumatism, gout, and 
other painful diseases, as might be inferred from its benumbing 
effects on the system. From its influence on the circulation, it 
is employed to reduce inflammatory action, and as a remedy in 
hypertrophy and other cases of irregular or excessive action 
of the heart. In controlling abnormal cardiac action, aconite 
is perhaps the most available article we possess. As a topical 
anodyne, in neuralgia, it has no superior. 

Administration. — The dose of the powdered leaves is gr. j to 
gr. ij ; of the alcoholic extract of the dried leaves, gr. \ to gr. 
j ; of the tincture of the leaves (four troyounces to diluted alco- 
hol Oij), 20 to -30 drops ; of the tincture of the root, which is 
by far the best preparation (twelve troyounces to alcohol Oij), 
5 to 10 drops. These doses are to be repeated twice or thrice 
daily, and cautiously increased, till the effects of the medicine 
are apparent. The tincture and alcoholic extract may be used 
externally. 

Aconitia (C 60 H 47 NO U ) is prepared from an aqueous solution 
of an alcoholic extract of aconite root, by the addition of sul- 
phuric acid (which converts the natural salt of aconitia into a 
sulphate) ; it is then freed from its oily and resinous portions 
by means of ether ; the alkaloid is subsequently precipitated 
with ammonia, then redissolved by ether, and again separated 
from this menstruum by evaporation. It is a white amorphous 
powder, with a tinge of yellow, without smell, of a bitter taste, 
and produces in the mouth a sense of numbness. It is par- 
tially soluble in water, and is readily dissolved by alcohol, 
ether, and chloroform. It colors concentrated hot phosphoric 
acid purple, and its watery solution gives a voluminous amor- 
phous precipitate with the iodo-hydrargyrate of potassium. 

Aconitia is an exceedingly virulent poison, more powerful 
when pure than hydrocyanic acid. It is scarcely adapted to 
internal use, as even one-fiftieth of a grain has produced 



68 MATERIA MEDICA. 

alarming results. As a topical agent in neuralgia and rheu- 
matism, it has been employed with great success, in alcoholic 
solution (gr. i-ij to f5j), or as an ointment (gr. ij to lard 5j, 
rubbed up with alcohol gtt. vj). 



EXTRACTUM C ANN ABIS— EXTR AC T OF HExMP. 

"An alcoholic extract of the dried tops of Cannabis sativa 
— variety Indica," was introduced into the Materia Medica in 
the edition of the U. S. Pharmacopoeia preceding the last. 
Cannavis sativa, or Hemp (Nat. Ord. Cannabinaceae) is a native 
of Persia and the northern parts of India, and is cultivated in 
Europe, and in the United States. Narcotic virtues were for- 
merly thought to exist only in the Cannabis Indica or Indian 
variety of the plant, but recent investigation seems to show 
that the hemp plants, raised in the Southern States, as Ken- 
tucky, are active, and might replace the East Indian drug. 

The medicinal properties of the plant reside in a resinous 
substance, which exudes from glands upon the surface of the 
stalks and leaves, and the extract is made by evaporating a 
tincture of the dried tops. Under the name of purified extract 
of hemp, (extractum cannabis purificatum), the U. S. Pharma- 
copoeia directs a preparation made by evaporating a tincture of 
the crude extract, thus securing greater uniformity of strength. 
Extract of hemp is of a dark, olive-green color, a fragrant nar- 
cotic odor, and a bitter, acrid taste. It is soluble in alcohol 
and ether, but not in water. The resin, which is probably the 
active principle, has received the name of cannabin. 

Effects and Uses. — The medicinal properties of Cannabis 
Indica are narcotic and antispasmodic, and in India both the 
herb and resin are extensively used as intoxicating exhilarants, 
under the name of haschisch. In large doses it is sedative, 
producing relaxation of the muscles, heavy sleep, and abatement 
of pain, without much affecting the secretions ; but opinions are 
by no means settled in the United States and Great Britain 
as to its effects. It has been chiefly extolled as an antispas- 
modic in traumatic tetanus, and has been employed with sue- 



hops. 69 

cess in other spasmodic diseases, chorea, hysteria, &c, and as 
an anodyne in rheumatism, gout, neuralgia, &c. It has also 
been given with advantage as an hypnotic both in mania and in 
mania-a-potu ; and its powers of exciting uterine contractions, 
and of checking uterine hemorrhagic discharges, are highly 
spoken of. Dose, from half a grain to two or more grains. 
The tincture is made by dissolving three hundred and sixty 
grains of the purified extract in a pint of alcohol ; forty drops 
of this are about equal to a grain of the extract. 

HUMULUS — HOPS. 

Hops are the strobiles of Humulus lupulus, or Hop-vine 
[Nat. Ord. Urticacese), a climbing vine, indigenous in Europe, 
and probably also in North America, with serrated, rough 
leaves, and greenish-yellow flowers. The medicinal portion is 
the fruit, or strobiles, which are also largely employed in the 
preparation of malt liquors, and are known as hops. They 
consist of thin, somewhat translucent, veined, leaflike bracts or 
scales, of a greenish-yellow color, a strong, fragrant, narcotic 
odor, and a bitter, aromatic, slightly astringent taste. Near 
their base are two small, round, dark seeds, covered with aro- 
matic glands or grains, which are the active portion of the 
hops, and are termed lupulin. They are separated by thresh- 
ing, rubbing, and sifting the scales, and constitute about a 
sixth part of the weight of hops. 

Lupulin {lupulina) is officinal, and consists of rounded or 
reniform, rather transparent grains, of a cellular texture, and 
a golden-yellow color. It is slightly soluble in water, and com- 
pletely so in alcohol, and is composed of a volatile oil, a bitter 
principle termed lupulite, resin, tannic acid, and other matters. 
The scaly bracts contain a small portion of lupulinic matter. 

Effects and Uses. — Hops are narcotic and tonic. The nar- 
cotic properties probably reside in the volatile oil, and the 
tonic properties in the bitter principle. They are said, also, 
to possess antaphrodisiac properties, and sometimes prove 
diuretic. The odorous emanation is employed as an hypnotic 



70 MATERIA MEDICA. 

by means of the hop-pillow. Internally, they are given to 
relieve restlessness, induce sleep, and allay pain, and are also 
much employed for their stomachic and tonic effect. The com- 
bination of tonic and narcotic virtues renders hops an excellent 
remedy in mild forms of mania-a-potu. Topically, they are 
employed in the form of fomentation or poultice, as a resol- 
vent or discutient, in painful swellings and tumors. 

Administration. — Hops are given in the form of infusion 
(half a troyounce to boiling water Oj), and tincture (five troy- 
ounces to diluted alcohol Oij), dose f5j to f5ii> 

The best preparation for internal use is Lupulin, in the 
dose of gr. v to gr. xij, in powder or pills. The tincture of 
Jupulin (four troyounces to alcohol Oij) may be given in the 
dose of f5j to f5ij. The fluid extract is a concentrated tinc- 
ture, containing the virtues of an ounce of lupulin in a fluid- 
ounce. The oleoresin also is officinal — dose, gr. ij to v. 



DULCAMARA — BITTERSWEET. 

The stalks of Solanum Dulcamara, the Woody Nightshade, 
or Bittersweet (JVat. Ord. Solan aceae), a European vine, natu- 
ralized in the United States, possess combined narcotic and 
diaphoretic properties. They are of a greenish-gray color, 
about the thickness of a quill, and have, when fresh, an un- 
pleasant odor, which they lose by drying. Their taste is at first 
bitter, afterwards slightly acrid and sweet. The active prin- 
ciple is a poisonous alkaloid termed solania, which has been 
found also in Solanum tuberosum, or common potato, and S. 
nigrum, or black nightshade. 

Effects and Uses. — In small doses, the most obvious effects 
of Bittersweet are an increase in the secretions from the skin and 
mucous surfaces, with some diminution of sensibility. In ex- 
cessive doses it is an acro-narcotic poison. It is principally 
used in the form of decoction (a troyounce boiled in a pint of 
water for fifteen minutes, and water enough afterwards added 



DILUTED HYDROCYANIC ACID. 71 

to make the decoction measure a pint),* in painful cutaneous 
affections, and also in chronic catarrh, rheumatism, and gout. 
An extract (dose, ten to twenty grains,) and fluid extract (of 
which a fluidounce represents a troyounce of the stalks), are 
both officinal. 



ACIDUM HYDROCYANICUM DILUTUM — DILUTED HY- 
DROCYANIC ACID. 

Hydrocyanic acid, known also as cyanhydric acid, and 
prussic acid, is found in a variety of vegetable substances, as 
the bitter almond, peach kernels and leaves, wild cherry, cherry 
laurel, &c. It is employed in medicine only in a state of ex- 
treme dilution ; and the diluted acid is obtained by the action 
of sulphuric acid and water on the ferrocyanide of potassium, 
or, when wanted for immediate use, by the action of muriatic 
acid and water on cyanide of silver. 

Diluted hydrocyanic acid is a colorless, volatile liquid, with 
a peculiar odor, and a cooling, somewhat irritating taste. It 
undergoes decomposition if exposed to the light, and should be 
kept in bottles covered with black paint or paper. It contains 
two per cent, of the anhydrous or concentrated acid. 

The anhydrous acid (HCy, or HNC 2 ) is a colorless, trans- 
parent, very volatile and decomposable liquid, with a powerful, 
peculiar odor, and a cooling, afterwards burning taste. Both 
water and alcohol dissolve it readily. It consists of one eq. of 
cyanogen and one of hydrogen. Its presence in a suspected 
mixture may be detected by the addition of a solution of nitrate 
of silver, which throws down a white, curdy precipitate of 
cyanide of silver, distinguishable by its exhaling the peculiar 
odor of prussic acid on the addition of muriatic acid; or (the 
best test) the hydrocyanic acid may be converted into hydro- 
sulphocyanate of ammonia by the addition of bihydrosulphate 

* This is the usual formula for the decoctions, and is the mode of prepa- 
ration of all those which are stated to be of the strength of an ounce to a 
pint of water. 



72 MATERIA MEDICA. 

of ammonia, and the salt thus formed yields a deep blood-red 
color upon the addition of a sesquioxide salt of iron. 

Physiological Effects. — When taken in medicinal doses, 
gradually increased, hydrocyanic acid occasions a bitter taste, 
increased flow of saliva, irritation in the throat, nausea, head- 
ache, giddiness, faintness, disorder of the vision, and tendency 
to sleep. The pulse is sometimes accelerated, but more com- 
monly depressed. In a poisonous dose, hydrocyanic acid 
arrests life with fearful rapidity, and is one of the most ener 
getic poisons known, one or two drops of the pure acid being 
sufficient to destroy a dog in a few seconds. When not imme- 
diately fatal, it produces great and sudden prostration, trismus, 
difficult and spasmodic respiration, dilatation and immobility 
and sometimes contraction of the pupils, convulsions, &c. The 
best antidotes are chlorine, and a mixture of sulphate of iron 
(gr. x to water f 5j), tincture of chloride of iron (f 5j), and car- 
bonate of potassa (3j), in water (f 5j or ij) ; inhalations of am- 
monia or its carbonate, and (if the patient can swallow), alco- 
holic stimuli are to be employed, and at the same^time cold 
affusions and artificial respiration are to be also resorted to. 
The subcutaneous injection of the sulphate of atropia has been 
also found available, acting as a physiological antidote. 

Medicinal Uses. — Hydrocyanic acid is a valuable agent in 
allaying spasm, pain, and nervous irritability, in a variety of 
disorders, and is much used to relieve cough, particularly in 
phthisis pulmonalis, and for its antispasmodic virtues in asth- 
ma and whooping-cough. It is, moreover, a most efficacious 
remedy in gastrodynia, and in neuralgic affections of the 
bowels, and also in chronic vomiting. Topically, it is em- 
ployed as an anodyne in neuralgia, and in various forms of 
cutaneous diseases (f5j to water Oj-Ojss). 

Dose of the officinal acid, one or two drops, to* be repeated 
and gradually increased by a drop, till some effect is percepti- 
ble. When it is taken for a length of time, care should be ob- 
served to have the medicine, as renewed, of uniform strength ; 
and it is best, in using a fresh sample, to return to the mini- 
mum dose. 






SYRUP OF ALMOND. 73 

Potassii Cyaxidum {Cyanide of Potassium), (KCy) is used 
as a substitute for hydrocyanic acid, and has the advantage of 
being a more uniform chemical product, and less liable to 
undergo decomposition. It occurs in white, opaque, amorphous 
masses, having a sharp, somewhat alkaline and bitter-almond 
taste, and its solution yields the odor of hydrocyanic acid, 
when exposed to the air. It is very soluble in water, and spar- 
ingly so in alcohol. Its medicinal and poisonous effects are 
the same as those of hydrocyanic acid. Dose, gr. J in half an 
ounce of distilled water, to be repeated and increased. The 
addition of a few drdps of some vegetable acid frees the hydro- 
cyanic acid, and the same effect is produced by the acids of the 
stomach. 

Oleum Amygdalae Amaile {Oil of Bitter Almond), con- 
tains hydrocyanic acid, and may be used for the same purposes. 
It is obtained by distillation from the fruit of Amygdalus com- 
munis, variety Amara (Nat. Ord. Amygdaleae,) and is of a 
yellowish color, with a bitter, acrid, burning taste, and the pe- 
culiar odor of the bitter almond, which is different from that of 
hydrocyanic acid. It is heavier than water, slightly soluble in 
it, and soluble in alcohol and ether. Its effects upon the sys- 
tem are closely analogous to those of hydrocyanic acid, and 
its strength is about four times that of the diluted officinal 
acid. Dose, for internal use, a quarter to half a drop in emul- 
sion ; as an external application, one drop to a fluidounce of 
menstruum. Bitter Almond Water is used as a vehicle for 
narcotic medicines. Dose, half a fluidounce. 

Syrupus Amygdala {Syrup of Almond), made from both 
the sweet and bitter almonds, is slightly impregnated with the 
virtues of hydrocyanic acid, and is a pleasant vehicle for cough 
mixtures. The following is the formula for preparing it : Rub 
twelve troyounces of blanched sweet almonds and four troy- 
ounces of bitter almonds to a fine paste, adding, during the 
trituration, three fluidounces of water and twelve troyounces 
of sugar. Mix the paste with two pints and thirteen fluid- 



74 MATERIA MEDICA. 

ounces of water, strain, and dissolve in this solution, at a gentle 
heat, sixty troyounces of powdered sugar. 

C AMPHORA — CAMPHOR. 

Camphor is a peculiar concrete substance, derived from 
Camphora officinarum, or the Camphor Laurel (Nat. Ord. 
Lauracere), a large evergreen tree of China, Japan, and Co- 
chin-China. All parts of the tree are strongly impregnated 
with camphor, which is obtained from the roots and branches 
by sublimation. In this state it is known in commerce as 
crude camphor, and consists of dirty grayish grains, adhering 
in crumbling masses. Japan camphor (called also Dutch cam- 
phor) has a pinkish color, and is purer than the China cam- 
phor, but it is not brought to the United States. The crude 
camphor, as imported from Canton, is not found in the shops, 
until it is refined by resublimation with lime, when it is 
termed refined camphor. 

This occurs in large hemispherical or convex-concave cakes, 
perforated in the middle. It is solid at ordinary temperatures, 
soft and somewhat tough, but may be readily powdered by the 
addition of a few drops of alcohol. It is translucent, has a 
strong, fragrant odor, and an aromatic, bitter, afterwards cool- 
ing, taste. It is volatile, highly inflammable, lighter than 
water, and very slightly soluble in it, but soluble in alcohol, 
ether, chloroform, oils, and acids. Water, added to the spirit 
of camphor, precipitates the camphor. 

A valuable camphor is known in the East, which is found in 
a concrete state in the cavities and fissures of the trunk of 
Dryobalanops Camphora, a tree of Borneo and Sumatra. 
The Borneo camphor occurs in small fragments of crystals, 
which are transparent, brittle, and harder than the laurel 
camphor. An oil, or liquid camphor, is also obtained from the 
Dryobalanops, which is more highly esteemed in Oriental 
countries than the camphor itself. 

Camphor is composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen 
(C 20 H 16 O 2 ). It has been considered to be an oxide of a hy- 



CAMPHOR. 75 

pothetical base called camphogen or camphene, which is iso- 
meric with the oil of turpentine. When heated, it yields an 
oil, called oil of camphor. By passing hydrochloric acid into 
oil of turpentine, a substance is obtained called artificial 
camphor. 

Physiological Effects. — The topical action of camphor is 
irritant. After its absorption, its effects, in small doses, are 
moderately stimulant, exhilarant, and anodyne, with a de- 
termination to the skin In large doses, it causes considerable 
disorder of the cerebro-spinal system, and generally depression 
of the circulation ; and in excessive quantity, it acts as a 
powerful acro-narcotic poison, occasioning burning heat in the 
stomach, violent convulsions, and maniacal delirium. It is also 
an anaphrodisiac. In cases of poisoning, after evacuating the 
stomach, opium, wine, &c, are to be administered. 

Medicinal Uses. — From its combined narcotic and diapho- 
retic powers, camphor is a valuable remedy in the treatment 
of dysentery, and is much employed in this disease, either in 
combination with opium, or as a substitute for the latter. In 
the early stages of cholera, and in flatulent diarrhoea, it is also 
greatly prescribed. As a diaphoretic stimulant and anti- 
spasmodic, it is useful in the low stages of typhoid and typhus 
fevers, and in typhoid conditions of the system generally. In 
many forms of mental disorder, it calms irritability, relieves 
despondency, and induces sleep. And it has no superior 
among the anodynes, in allaying irritation or pain of the genito- 
urinary organs, as in dysmenorrhea, uterine after-pains, 
strangury, nymphomania, chordee, &c. From its anodyne 
and sudorific properties, it is also applicable to the treatment 
of chronic rheumatism and gout. Externally* camphor is em- 
ployed as an anodyne in rheumatism, and as a discutient in 
chronic inflammatory affections. Powdered camphor, sniffed 
into the nostrils, is a good remedy in coryza and influenza. 

Administration. — The medium dose, in substance, is gr. v to 
gr. x ; but it may vary from gr. j to 3j. It is best given in 
emulsion, made by rubbing up the camphor with loaf sugar, 
gum arabic, myrrh, and water. The form of pill is objection- 



76 MATERIA MEDICA. 

able, from the difficulty with which it is dissolved in the gastric 
liquors. 

Aqua Camphors [Camphor Water), is made by rubbing up 
camphor (120 grains) with 40 minims of alcohol, and subse- 
quently with carbonate of magnesia (half a troyounce) and dis- 
tilled water (two pints). The carbonate is used to promote the 
solution of the camphor, and is afterwards separated by filtra- 
tion. Dose, fSj (containing about gr. iij) to f§ij or iij. The 
spirit (four troyounces to alcohol Oij), is chiefly used as an 
embrocation, but it may be given internally, where the action 
of the alcohol is not objectionable, in the dose of gtt. v to f5j. 

Lixlmextum Camphors (Camphor Liniment), consists of 
camphor (1 part), dissolved in olive oil (4 parts) : a mild embro- 
cation. 

Liximentum Sapoxis, (Soap Liniment), is made by digest- 
ing soap (four troyounces) and camphor (two troyounces) with 
oil of rosemary (half a fluidounce), in alcohol (two pints) and 
water (four fluidounces). It is a yellow oleaginous liquid, and 
is used as an anodyne and gently rubefacient application, in 
gouty and rheumatic pains, sprains, bruises, &c. 

Oleum Camphors (Oil of Camphor), the volatile oil ob- 
tained from Camphora officinarum, is a light reddish-brown 
fluid, with the odor and taste of camphor. It has .medicinal 
properties similar to those of camphor, but is more stimulant, 
and therefore especially adapted to affections of the stomach 
and bowels. Dose, 2 or 3 drops. It is used also externally. 

PHYSOSTIGMA — CALABAR BEAN. 

This article, although not officinal, has been recently em- 
ployed in spasmodic diseases with much effect. It is derived 
from a perennial creeping plant of the western coast of Africa, 
which has received the name of Physostigma venenosum (Nat. 
Ord. Fabaeeae). The seed is about the size of a large horse- 
bean, irregularly kidney-form, in shape/with a firm, hard, 
brittle, reddish or greyish-brown integument. The inner kernel 
is by far the more active portion ; it is hard, white, pulverizable, 



COCCULUS LNDICUS. 77 

of an edible taste, without bitterness or acridity. Alcohol, but 
not water, extracts its medicinal virtues. It is said to have 
yielded an active principle, termed physostigmin. 

The calabar bean has long been used among the negroes of 
"Western Africa, as an ordeal to determine the guilt or inno- 
cence of accused individuals, whence its name, the ordeal bean 
of Calabar. It has been found, in full medicinal doses, to pro- 
duce giddiness, torpor, paleness and coolness of the surface, 
weak and irregular pulse, relaxation of the muscular system, 
and drowsiness, but not stupor. An interesting effect of its 
action is a remarkable power of contracting the pupil, whether 
taken internally or applied externally ; and it also contracts the 
ciliary muscle, which regulates the accommodating power of the 
eye. As a neurotic, its influence is more decided upon the 
spinal marrow than the brain. 

Calabar bean has been found highly efficacious in traumatic 
tetanus. It has been used also with success in chorea, and in 
poisoning from strychnia, and spasmodic cholera. In ophthal- 
mic surgery, its employment is obvious, either to produce con- 
traction of the pupil, or to increase the power of accommodating 
the eye to distances. 

The dose of the kernel is laid down as two or three grains, 
to begin with, gradually increased. By exhausting the kernel 
with alcohol, an alcoholic extract is obtained, of which the dose 
is one-eighth of a grain. The best form of administration is a 
tincture, which may be made from the alcoholic extract, in the 
proportion of twelve grains to an ounce of alcohol — dose 10 
drops ; or a solution in glycerin may be used. Paper, impreg- 
nated with a concentrated tincture of the bean, and afterwards 
dried, has been applied locally to the eye. 

COCCULUS COCCULUS IXDICUS. 

This is the dried seed of Anamirta Cocculus, [Nat. Ord. 
Menispermacese), a climbing shrub of India. The fruit is a 
one-celled berry, of a dark, purplish color, with a soft pulp, 
and a single seed. This, when dried, is about the size of a pea, 



78 MATERIA MEDICA. 

of a dark grayish color, and consists of a thin, dry, blackish, 
wrinkled integument, containing a whitish, oily, inodorous, very 
hitter kernel. The active properties reside in a peculiar white, 
crystallizable, bitter principle, termed picrotoxi?i, which is par- 
tially soluble in water, and very soluble in alcohol and ether. 
In the shell, an alkaloid termed menispermia has been found, 
and a neutral principle of the same composition as the alkaloid, 
t erm ed paramenispermin. 

Effects and Uses. — Cocculus Indicus is an acrid cerebro-spi- 
nant narcotic, capable, in large doses, of producing death. It 
has not been much used internally ; but in the form of decoc- 
tion or ointment, is employed to destroy lice and other para- 
sites, and for the cure of tinea and porrigo of the scalp. It is 
said to prevent the secondary fermentation of malt liquors, into 
which it is sometimes introduced as an adulteration. Cocculus 
Indicus is not officinal. 



WOORARA. 

This substance, termed also woorari, wooralL and curare, 
has long been known as a powerful poison, prepared by the In- 
dians in S. America, and, of late years, has been employed as 
a medicine. Its source is unsettled, but it is generally con- 
sidered to be an extract from the bark of an unknown plant. 
It is brought from the shores of the Amazon, and occurs in the 
form of dark-brown or grayish lumps or powder, of an in- 
tensely bitter taste, and, when triturated, of a powerful odor. 
A principle termed curarine is said to have been extracted from 
woorara. 

Effects and Uses. — Woorara is ranked with the sedative nar- 
.cotics, and is considered to destroy life by more or less rapid 
paralysis of the respiratory muscles. A peculiarity of its ac- 
tion is that it is comparatively innoxious when taken by the 
stomach, being either not absorbed at all in this viscus, or so 
slowly, as to allow of its elimination by the kidneys, before 
dangerous accumulation in the blood. Hence, for therapeutic 
purposes, it must be employed either endermically to a blis- 



ETHER. 79 

tered surface, or by hypodermic injection. The diseases in 
which it has been chiefly used, are tetanus and epilepsy. The 
amount administered endermically is from a half to three 
quarters of a grain daily. 

ORDER II. — ETHEREAL ANESTHETICS. 

The term, Anaesthetics, (from a non, and aladriaiq sensation,) 
properly speaking, includes all agents which diminish sensibility 
and relieve pain. It has however, been used to denominate a 
class of ethereal remedies, which are applied by inhalation, and 
produce such a condition of temporary insensibility, as to pre- 
vent pain during surgical operations and parturition. 

The vapors usually employed to produce anaesthesia are 
those of ether and chloroform. Many other substances 
have, however, lately been introduced as anesthetics. 

ilTHE R — E T H E R. 

Ether is prepared by the distillation of alcohol and sulphu- 
ric acid, and is afterwards rectified by redistillation with solu- 
tion of potassa. For inhalation, however, it is further purified 
by being shaken with water, by which it is freed from alcohol, 
and this, as well as acid contaminations, are afterwards re- 
moved by the agency of chloride of calcium and freshly cal- 
cined lime. Thus purified, it is designated as 2Ether Fortior 
— Stronger Ether. 

Although commonly termed sulphuric ether, in allusion to 
the sulphuric acid used in its preparation, yet ether contains no 
sulphuric acid. By the action of the acid upon alcohol, this 
substance, which is chemically a hydrated oxide of ethyl, is de- 
prived of the elements of water, and is converted into the ox- 
ide of ethyl or ether, for which the formula is C 4 H 5 0. 

Ether is a transparent, colorless liquid, with a strong, fra- 
grant odor, and a hot, pungent taste. It wholly evaporates in 
the air, so rapidly as to cause a considerable degree of cold, is 
very inflammable, combines with alcohol and chloroform in 



80 MATERIA MEDICA. 

every proportion, and dissolves in ten times its volume of water. 
The sp. gr. of pure ether is 0.713, of stronger ether, 0.728, of 
ordinary officinal ether, 0.750. The boiling point of stronger 
ether is about 98° F. 

Effects and Uses when Swallowed. — When taken into the 
stomach, ether produces a primary stimulant and secondary 
narcotic eifect, the stage of excitement being, however, very 
transient. It has long been employed as an antispasmodic and 
anodyne remedy in asthma, angina pectoris, hysteria, cramp of 
the stomach and bowels, spasm of the gall ducts, &c. ; and 
from its combined stimulant and antispasmodic virtues, it has 
been found useful in the latter stages of typhus, attended by 
subsultus tendinum, &c. As a topical anodyre, ether is a very 
good application in nervous headache and earache ; it has been 
also applied with advantage in aphthae, stomatitis, diphtheria, 
and other affections of the mouth and throat ; and from its re- 
frigerant effects, it has been used in the reduction of strangu- 
lated herniae, and as a cooling lotion in cerebral affections. If 
evaporation be repressed, when 'it is applied locally, it acts as 
a rubefacient, and may be employed for counter-irritation. 

Dose, f 5ss to f 5j, to be increased when habitually used. It 
may be incorporated with water, by rubbing it up with sperma- 
ceti, in the proportion of two grains to a fluidrachm of ether, or 
it may be given in capsules of sugared gum. 

Effects and Uses when Inhaled. — When the vapor of ether 
is absorbed into the system through the pulmonary surface, 
the nervous functions are successively and progressively affected. 
The mental faculties and volition become first impaired ; insen- 
sibility and unconsciousness rapidly supervene, during which 
susceptibility to pain is lost; and the patient lies in a trance- 
like sleep, resembling death. This condition is often preceded 
by one of excitement, during which patients sometimes moan, 
sing, rave, or present pugnacious manifestations. In the begin- 
ning of etherization, the circulation is accelerated, but it is 
afterwards depressed. The period of intoxication lasts from 
five to ten minutes, and the patient ordinarily recovers without 
serious inconvenience ; although headache, nausea, drowsiness, 



ETHER. 81 

and languor sometimes ensue for a few hours. Occasionally, 
congestion of the brain or lungs, cataleptic rigidity with pro- 
longed insensibility, and, in females, hysterical phenomena 
ensue after etherization ; but these effects are uncommon, and 
it is believed that death has never followed the use of ether, 
when care has been taken to admit atmospheric air into the 
lungs along with the ether. During the stage of insensibility, 
convulsive twitches or muscular rigidity are occasionally noticed ; 
the breathing is sometimes stertorous ; the iris becomes fixed ; 
the pupils are dilated ; the eyeballs are upturned ; and the orbi- 
cularis palpebrarum does not contract when touched. Insensi- 
bility to pain in some cases takes place before unconsciousness ; 
and when patients are recovering from the latter state, the 
mental faculties are often completely restored, while insensi- 
bility to pain continues. 

Since the year 1846, the inhalation of ether, first resorted 
to in our own country, has been practised very generally in all 
parts of the world, with the greatest success, for the prevention 
of pain in surgical operations; and its use has been also 
extended with the happiest results to the relief of pain in 
labor. 

It should not be exhibited where disease of the heart or brain, 
or serious obstruction of the lungs exists, or when from any 
cause there is unusual tendency to syncope, and precaution 
should be taken to guard against asphyxia; but, when ad- 
ministered with proper care and discrimination, it is attended 
with little or no danger or unpleasant results of any kind. 

The quantity of ether necessary to effect etherization is 
about two ounces ; and it may be conveniently applied by means 
of a soft sponge or handkerchief. The sponge is usually ad- 
justed in shape to the projection of the nose, and, after being 
soaked in warm water, and squeezed dry, is saturated with pure 
ether. It is then applied to the nostrils, the mouth being left 
free to receive atmospheric air ; and, if irritability of the air- 
passages occur, this is to be gradually overcome. From three 
to five minutes are required to produce ansesthezation, and its 
occurrence is known by closure of the eyelids (if they have been 

ft 



82 MATERIA MEDICA. 

previously open), failure to respond to questions, and muscular 
relaxation. The sponge is then to be removed, and may be re- 
applied from time to time if necessary. 

Etherization has been also resorted to in a variety of morbid 
conditions, in which the administration of narcotics and anti- 
spasmodics has been found useful. It exerts a powerful con- 
trol over the violent types of spasmodic disease, and has been 
prescribed with the greatest advantage in hysteria, tetanus, 
poisoning from strychnia, asthma, chorea, convulsions, puer- 
peral eclampsia, whooping-cough, dysmenorrhoea, and almost 
every description of spasm ; and as a relaxant in the reduction 
of dislocations. 

Local ansesthesia and congelation may be produced through 
the agency of the ether spray applied to a part by the atomizer, 
(seep. 38). 

CHLOROFORMUM — CHLOROFORM. 

Chloroform is usually obtained from the distillation of alco- 
hol with chlorinated lime, and for medicinal use, the chloroform 
of commerce requires purification, which is accomplished by 
shaking it with sulphuric acid. This destroys the chlorinated 
.pyrogenous oil, which contaminates the chloroform, and the 
sulphurous acid formed and the water present are afterwards 
removed by means of alcohol and carbonate of potassa. The 
•purest chloroform, for internal use, is now made from the 
hydrate of chloral. 

Ptjrified Chloroform (Chloroformum Purificatum) is a 
'colorless, volatile liquid, of a bland, ethereal odor, and a hot, 
-aromatic, saccharine taste. It is not inflammable, is slightly 
soluble in water, and freely soluble in alcohol and ether. It 
has extensive solvent powers, dissolving camphor, the fixed and 
volatile oils, most resins and fats, iodine, bromine, the organic 
alkalies, &c. The purest chloroform has a sp. gr. of 1.5022. 
Officinal chloroform has a sp. gr. of 1.49 to 1.494, when it 
contains a little alcohol ; and, as usually found, its sp. gr. is 
;about 1.475, when it contains more alcohol, and is less apt to 



CHLOROFORM. 83 

become acid. The boiling point of pure chloroform is between 
144.14° and 144.45° F. It is, chemically, a terchloride of 
formyl, C 2 HC1 3 . Chloroform is sometimes contaminated with 
chlorinated pyrogenous oils (a very injurious impurity) ; these 
may be detected and removed by strong sulphuric acid, which 
gives the chloroform a color varying from yellowish to reddish- 
brown, according to the amount of impurity. The most deli- 
cate test for the presence of alcohol is the binitrosulphuret of 
iron, which, when agitated with chloroform, will produce a 
brown tint if alcohol be present. 

Physiological Effects. — The effects of chloroform on the sys- 
tem are analogous to those of ether, but much more rapid and 
powerful. When inhaled, in the dose of a fluidrachm or more, 
it rapidly induces anesthetic sleep, with great relaxation of 
the muscles, and the most complete insensibility to painful 
agents. The period at which insensibility occurs varies from 
fifteen seconds to two minutes ; and it continues usually be- 
tween five and ten minutes, and may be prolonged considerably, 
by renewals of the inhalation. The patient usually recovers 
without recollection of what has occurred during the state of 
insensibility, and with few or no uncomfortable sequelae. 

The administration of chloroform has, in some cases, been 
attended with fatal syncope. This has ordinarily occurred 
with such rapidity as to render remedial interference unavail- 
ing ; but, at the slightest approach of symptoms of the kind, 
the patient should be placed in a recumbent position, cold 
affusions should be applied, and, above all, electro-magnetism 
should be resorted to. It would be proper always to have an 
electro-magnetic machine ready for use, when chloroform is 
inhaled. 

Topically applied, and when its evaporation is prevented, 
chloroform acts as an irritant, and soon vesicates the skin — 
powerfully diminishing painful impressions during its appli- 
cation. 

Medicinal Uses. — Chloroform is prescribed by the stomach 
as an anodyne and antispasmodic, in all the cases to which 
ether is applicable, and has the advantage of a more agreeable 



$4 MATERIA MEDICA. 

taste. It has been found particularly useful to relieve the 
pain and vomiting of cancer of the stomach. It has been also 
extolled as an antiperiodic in the treatment of intermittent 
fevers. Externally, it is used as a topical anodyne, and also 
as a stimulating application to foul and indolent ulcers, and 
occasionally for its constitutional effects. 

Dose, from f5ss to f5j, in sweetened water or mucilage; to 
be repeated. As an anti-neuralgic liniment, f5j to fgij of cam- 
phor liniment ; or as a rubefacient and anodyne, undiluted, on 
linen, covered with oiled silk, to prevent evaporation. As a 
wash or gargle, foj or ij to water Oj. 

The introduction of chloroform, as an anaesthetic, took place 
shortly after that of ether ; and, from its greater intensity of 
action, its freedom from irritating effects on the bronchial 
mucous membrane, its more agreeable odor, and its non-inflam- 
mability, it has been extensively used, particularly in Great 
Britain, to the exclusion of ether. A number of fatal cases 
have, however, occurred from the inhalation of this agent, 
where its administration did not appear in any way counter- 
indicated ; and it can scarcely be considered a perfectly safe 
remedy. It is employed as an anaesthetic, anodyne, and anti- 
spasmodic, to fulfil the indications to which ether is appli- 
cable. 

The dose for inhalation is a fluidrachm, to be repeated in two 
minutes, if anaesthesia be not produced ; and its effects may be 
renewed from time to time, without injury. It may be applied 
on a handkerchief, held near the nose or mouth, care being 
taken to allow a proper admixture of atmospheric air. 

A solution of chloroform in ether has been used in the 
United States, but from the unequal volatilization of the two 
liquids, it must be difficult to modify their effects by combina- 
tion. 

Spiritus Chloroformi (Spirit of Chloroform), is a solution 
of one part of chloroform in six parts of alcohol ; a convenient 
form for internal exhibition. Dose, f5ss-f5j. 

Liniment of Chloroform is made by mixing three parts of 
chloroform with four parts of olive oil. 



COMPOUNDS OF AMYL. 85 

Mixture of Chloroform is made by mixing chloroform, in 
which camphor is dissolved (sixty grains in half a troyounce of 
chloroform), with six fluidounces of water, by the intervention 
of the yolk of an egg. Dose, f5ss-f§j. 

Since the discovery of the anaesthetic properties of ether and 
chloroform, many other substances have been employed for the 
purpose of anaesthesia. Of these may be mentioned : 

I. Rhigolene, a petroleum naptha, obtained by the distilla- 
tion of petroleum. It is the lightest of all known liquids, 
having a sp. gr. 0.625, is highly volatile and inflammable, boils 
at 70° F., and in its composition is a hydrocarbon, containing 
no oxygen. It is nearly odorless, and has been employed to 
produce local anaesthesia through the agency of the atomizer, 
and is the most convenient, most rapid, and most easily con- 
trolled freezing liquid that can be used. Its name is derived 
from piyog, extreme cold. 

II. Bichloride of Methylene. — This liquid is most easily 
procured by the action of nascent hydrogen (developed from 
zinc, water, and sulphuric acid), upon chloroform. Its compo- 
sition is CH 2 C1 2 . It is a colorless fluid, having a pleasant 
ethereal odor like that of chloroform, boils at 88° F., has sp. 
gr. 1.34, and mixes with ether and chloroform in all propor- 
tions. It is said nearly to equal chloroform in efficacy, with 
less danger to life, while its effects are much more rapid. It 
may be used in about the same dose as chloroform. 

III. Methylic Ether, made by digesting methylic alcohol 
with strong sulphuric acid, is a gaseous substance, lately em- 
ployed. Under the name of methyl-ethylic ether, it has been 
used, dissolved in ethylic ether, and is said to produce rapid 
anaesthesia, without spasm, syncope or asphyxia, during inhala- 
tion, or subsequent nausea. One or two drachms may be in- 
troduced into a bag inhaler, and the gas is volatilized by means 
of a hand bellows. 

IV. Compounds of Amyl. — Various compounds of amyl 
(C 10 H n ), products derivable from the oxidation of starchy mat- 
ter, have been proposed as anaesthetics. Amylic alcohol, or 



86 MATERIA MEDICA. 

fusel oil (the hydrated oxide of amyl, C 10 H u O + HO), is one of 
the products of the alcoholic fermentation. It is a colorless, 
oily liquid, of a strong, offensive odor, and an acrid, burn- 
ing taste. When inhaled by animals, it has been found to 
produce muscular paralysis and convulsions. Amylene (C 10 H 10 ) 
is prepared by distilling amylic alcohol with a concentrated so- 
lution of chloride of zinc. It is a colorless, mobile liquid, 
having a peculiar disagreeable smell. Of the amyl series, amy- 
lene alone can be considered as a true anaesthetic, that will pro- 
duce complete insensibility to pain. An extreme dose is, how- 
ever, required for this purpose, and its operation is dangerous 
to life. The hydruret, iodide, acetate, and nitrite of amyl haye 
also been employed. Of these compounds, however, the ni- 
trite alone appears likely to come into use as a therapeutic 
agent. The nitrite of amyl is prepared by heating one part 
of strong nitric acid with two parts of rectified fusel oil until 
the reaction just commences, when the fire is withdrawn. 
After the violent reaction has subsided, heat is again carefully 
applied. The distillate obtained below 212° F., is rectified 
over carbonate of potassa, with the precaution to collect only 
that portion distilling between 202° .and 206° F. It is a ni- 
trite of the oxide of amyl, and is an amber-colored, volatile, 
inflammable liquid, of sp. gr. 0.913, boiling at 182° F., with 
an odor and taste like that of ripe pears. Its composition is 
C 10 H u NO 3 -f HO. It is not a true anaesthetic, as it does not 
destroy consciousness, unless a condition approaching to death 
is produced. It exercises, however, a rapid and powerful in- 
fluence on the heart and circulation, and as an excitant of vas- 
cular action may be considered the most energetic agent as yet 
physiologically discovered. It has been employed to rouse the 
system in cases of syncope and prostration, and has been also 
found efficacious in relieving the pain of angina pectoris, and 
as a general relaxer of muscular spasm. Experiments upon 
animals show it to be also a physiological antidote in cases of 
poisoning from strychnia, and it would probably prove effica- 
cious in tetanus. Dose, 5 to 6 drops. 
V. Tetrachloride of Carbon.— This substance, termed 



NITROUS OXIDE GAS. 87 

also bichloride of carbon and chlorocarbon, (CC1 4 ), is made by 
passing the vapor of bisulphuret of carbon, together with chlo- 
rine, through a red-hot porcelain tube ; and is purified by agi- 
tation with an alcoholic solution of potash, afterwards washing 
with water, and subsequently redistilling. It is a transparent, 
colorless fluid, having an ethereal and sweetish odor, not unlike 
that of chloroform. Its sp. gr. is high, 1.56^ and its boiling 
point, 170° F. It is miscible in all proportions with ether and 
chloroform. Chlorocarbon has been employed by inhalation, 
as an antispasmodic, anodyne, and anaesthetic, and has the 
advantage of a pleasant smell and freedom from nauseating 
effect. For full and prolonged anaesthesia, however, there are 
objections to its use in the heaviness of its vapor, its insuf- 
ficient volatility, and the consequent difficulty of its elimina- 
tion from the system. It may be inhaled to the extent of 
f5i. A mixture of one part of chlorocarbon and six parts of 
chloroform is recommended as a safe and agreeable anaesthetic. 
The Tetrabromide of Carbon (CBrJ has very recently 
been added to our list of anaesthetics. It may be made by 
heating bisulphuret of carbon in a sealed tube with bromide of 
iodine. It is a white substance, crystallizing in plates, of an 
ethereal odor, somewhat resembling that of tetrachloride of car- 
bon, and sweetish taste. It is insoluble in water, but dissolves 
in ether, alcohol, bisulphuret of carbon, chloroform, bromoform, 
benzole, and petroleum. 

VI. Nitrous Oxide Gas was the substance by which an- 
aesthesia was in the first instance produced, in the hands of 
Mr. Horace Wells, a dentist of Hartford, Connecticut. It 
is made by the decomposition of nitrate of ammonia by heat. 
Its composition is NO. It is a colorless, respirable gas, ab- 
sorbable by water, and the solution, like the gas itself, has a 
faint, agreeable odor and sweet taste. This gas is both a plea- 
sant and efficient anaesthetic, more transitory in its action than 
either ether or chloroform, and free from disagreeable or seri- 
ous consequences. It is well adapted to employment in the 
extraction of teeth, but its effects are too transient for the an- 
aesthesia required in protracted surgical operations. The 



88 MATERIA MEDICA. 

amount necessary to produce anaesthesia, (one or two gallons,) 
as well as the complicated apparatus required for its adminis- 
tration, constitute also an objection to its general use. Water 
impregnated with about five times its volume of nitrous oxide, 
has been used internally as a stimulant, in the dose of half a 
pint to a pint and a half, during the course of the day. In ex- 
periments upon dogs, nitrous oxide water injected into the 
bowels has been found to act as a physiological antidote in cases 
of poisoning from chloroform, carbonic acid, hydrocyanic acid, 
and other agents. 



ORDER III. — ANTISPASMODICS. 

Antispasmodics are medicines that allay irregular nervous 
action. Their effects upon the economy in a state of health 
are not very decided, and are limited to a slight stimulation of 
the circulation, and exhilaration of the mental faculties. Their 
influence is, however, strikingly shown in certain deranged 
conditions of the nervous system, particularly in those forms 
of spasm which depend upon idiopathic or primary nervous dis- 
order. They are also useful in many varieties of mental dis- 
turbance, as wakefulness, hypochondriasis, and even insanity, 
and are often preferable to narcotics in the treatment of these 
cases, from their comparative freedom of action on the brain. 



ASSAFCETIDA — ASSAFETIDA. 

Assafetida is the concrete juice of the root of Narthex 
Assafcetida (Nat. Ord. Apiaceae). This plant is a native of 
Persia, and has a large, tapering root, the size of a man's leg, 
with long, lanceolate leaves, springing directly from the root, 
and an erect stem, from six to nine feet in height, rising from 
the midst of the leaves. The drug is obtained from incisions 
made into the root, or by taking successive slices of ifc The 
exuded juice is scraped off, hardened in the sun, and afterwards 
packed for exportation. It occurs in masses of various sizes, 



ASSAFETIDA. 89 

consistence, and color, but is usually whitish, intermixed with 
darker spots, and becomes reddish, and finally brown, by ex- 
posure to the air. It is sometimes soft and adhesive, at other 
times hard and brittle, and is not readily powdered, except at 
a low temperature. It breaks with a waxy lustre, and the best 
samples . appear to be composed of irregularly-shaped tears. 
Its taste is unpleasant, bitter, and acrid; its odor powerful, 
alliaceous, and fetid. 

Assafetida is a gum-resin, united to a volatile oil. The gum 
is dissolved by water ; and the mucilage thus formed suspends 
the resin and volatile oil. The resin and volatile oil are solu- 
ble in alcohol ; but the tincture becomes milky on the addition 
of water, owing to the separation of the resin. 

Physiological Effects. — Assafetida is a moderate excitant 
and exhilarant, and exerts a marked influence upon morbid 
conditions of the nervous system. It also stimulates the 
mucous secretions generally, and increases the peristaltic 
action of the bowels. Its volatile oil is absorbed, and the 
odorous principle is recognized in the secretions, especially in 
the perspiration. 

Medicinal Uses. — No medicine is more highly esteemed as a 
direct antispasmodic than assafetida. It is much resorted to 
in the various forms of hysteria, and is particularly valuable in 
relieving the mental depression, which constitutes one of the 
protean types of this disorder. In other spasmodic diseases, 
as chorea, asthma, whooping-cough, &c, it is a favorite remedy 
with many practitioners ; and, from its combined expectorant 
and antispasmodic properties, it is particularly adapted to spas- 
modic pectoral affections. In certain diseases of the abdominal 
viscera, as flatulent colic and costiveness, assafetida is often 
useful as an antispasmodic and laxative enema. It is also 
prescribed as a stimulating emmenagogue, when the uterine 
disorder is attended with a disturbance of the nervous func- 
tions. 

Notwithstanding its disagreeable odor, this drug is largely 
used as a condiment in Asia ; and even in the refined cookery 
of Europe its flavor is admired. Many persons take it habitu- 



90 MATERIA MEDICA. 

ally for its exhilarant effects ; and, when used as a medicine, it 
generally becomes acceptable. 

Administration. — Dose, gr. v to 3j, in pill. It is most fre- 
quently given in the form of mixture (Mistura Assafcetidse, — 
5ij, rubbed gradually with water Oss), — dose, f gss to f Sj, re- 
peated, or as an enema, f gij to f §iv. This mixture, from its 
whiteness and opacity, is sometimes called lac assafoetidoe, or 
milk of assafetida. Pills of assafetida, made by beating up 
three parts of assafetida with one part of soap and a little water, 
are officinal, each pill containing 3 grains of the gum-resin. 
The tincture (four troyounces to alcohol Oij — dose f 5j) ? is a 
good preparation, where the alcohol is not objectionable. A 
plaster is used externally in whooping-cough and catarrh ; it is 
made by dissolving twelve troyounces of assafetida and six troy- 
ounces of galbanum in three pints of alcohol, evaporating to the 
consistence of honey, and to this adding twelve troyounces of 
lead-plaster and six troyounces of yellow wax, previously melted 
together. 



GALBANUM. 

Galbanum is the concrete juice of an unknown Eastern 
plant. It is met with in the form of tears, or more commonly 
in lumps, of a brownish color, and has a peculiar balsamic odor, 
and a hot, bitter, acrid taste. It is a gum-resin united to a 
volatile oil. Its effects are similar to those of assafetida, but 
less active ; and it is chiefly employed externally, as a stimu- 
lant and resolvent to indolent swelling's. The compound pills 
of galbanum are used as antispasmodic and emmenagogue ; they 
are made by beating into a pilular mass three hundred and 
sixty grains of galbanum and myrrh, each, and one hundred 
and twenty grains of assafetida, with a little syrup, the mass 
to be divided into 240 pills,— dose, 10 to. 20 grains. Galbanum 
forms the basis of the compound galbanum plaster, which con- 
tains eight parts of galbanum, one part of turpentine, three 
parts of Burgundy pitch, and thirty-six parts of plaster of 
lead. 



VALERIAN. 91 



A M M N I A C U M — AMMONIAC. 

This is the concrete juice of Dorema Ammoniacum {Nat. 
Ord. Apiaceae), a plant of Persia. It comes in tears or lumps, 
of an irregular shape, yellowish on the outside, whitish within, 
is moderately hard and brittle, and has an unpleasant, bitter, 
and rather acrid taste, with a peculiar smell, somewhat like 
that of galbanum. It is a gum-resin, with a little volatile oil. 
Its effects are similar to those of assafetida ; but it is seldom 
used, except as an antispasmodic expectorant in chronic 
catarrh. Dose, gr. x to xxx. A mixture and plaster are offi- 
cinal. The mixture has the same formula as mixture of assa- 
fetida ; the plaster is made by dissolving five troyounces of 
ammoniac in half a pint of diluted acetic acid, straining, and 
evaporating to a proper consistence. A plaster of ammoniac 
with mercury is also officinal. 

VALERIANA — VALERIAN. 

Valeriana officinalis, or Wild Valerian (Nat. Ord. Valerian - 
acese), is a perennial European plant, growing to the height 
of three or four feet, with serrated leaves, and small, reddish- 
white fragrant flowers. The root is the portion used, and 
consists of numerous long, slender, cylindrical fibres, attached 
to a rough, tuberculated head. The color of the dried root 
externally is yellowish or brown, and internally white ; when 
powdered, it is yellowish-gray. It has a peculiar, powerful 
odor, of which cats are fond, and a bitterish, subacrid, aromatic 
taste. Water and alcohol extract its virtues, which depend on 
the presence of a volatile oil, from which a peculiar colorless, 
volatile acid, called valerianic, may be separated. 

Effects and Uses. — Valerian generally acts as an energetic 
excitant and antispasmodic, although at times it makes but a 
feeble impression on the system. It is much used as a nervous 
excitant and antispasmodic in the various forms of hysteria, 
and occasionally, also, in epilepsy, chorea, hemicrania, hypo- 
chondriasis, delirium tremens, &c. 



92 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Dose of the powder, from 5ss to 5jss, three or four times a 
day ; of the infusion (half a troyounce to Oj of water), fgj to 
ij ; of the tincture (four troyounces to diluted alcohol Oij), 
f 5j ; of the ammoniated tincture (four troyounces to aromatic 
spirit of ammonia Oij— an excellent preparation), fSj to ij ; of 
the fluid extract, f5j J of the alcoholic extract gr. x to xxx ; of 
the oil, 4 or 5 drops. 

Ammonia Valerianas [Valerianate of Ammonia). — This 
salt, made by combining valerianic acid with ammonia, occurs 
in snow-white, pearly crystals, of an offensive odor like that of 
valerianic acid, and a sharp, sweetish taste. It is soluble both 
in water and alcohol. Much employed in neuralgia, hysteria, 
chorea, epilepsy, &c. Dose, gr. ij-viij, given in coated pills ; 
or an elixir, prepared with aromatics, may be used. 



CYPRIPEDIUM. 

The root of Cypripedium pubescens, or yellow ladys-slipper, 
[Nat. Ord. Orchidacese) a common indigenous plant, growing 
to the height of one or two feet, possesses mild antispasmodic 
properties, and has been used as a substitute for valerian. 
Dose of the powdered root, gr. xv, three times a day. An in- 
fusion and tincture are also used ; by precipitating the tincture 
an oleoresin is obtained, of which the dose is half a grain to 
three grains. 



SCUTELLARIA — SKULLCAP. 

The herb of Scutellaria lateriflora {Nat. Ord. Labiatse), an 
indigenous perennial herb, growing to the height of one or two 
feet, with ovate, acute, dentate, petiolate, opposite leaves, and 
small pale-blue bowers, is considered by many American prac- 
titioners to possess valuable antispasmodic properties. An 
infusion (two troyounces to boiling water Oj) may be taken ad 
libitum : and & fluid extract is also used. 



TEA — COFFEE — CHOCOLATE. 93 



DRACONTIUM — SKUNK CABBAGE. 

Dracontium foetidum, Symplocarpus foetidus, or Skunk 
Cabbage (Nat. Ord. Orontiacese), is an indigenous plant, 
growing in moist situations, which flowers in April and May, 
and afterwards sends up numerous large and luxuriant leaves. 
The fresh root has a strong, fetid odor, and an acrid taste, but 
loses these properties by being kept. It is stimulant, anti- 
spasmodic, and narcotic, and is employed in hysteria, asthma, 
chronic catarrh, &c. Dose, gr. x to xx, gradually increased. 
It is also given in the form of infusion. The leaves are used 
in the country to keep up the discharge from blistered surfaces 
and to stimulate indolent ulcers. 

The following vegetable substances, used as articles of diet, 
may be ranked also with antispasmodics. 

I. Thea — Tea, the dried leaves of Thea Chinensis, (Nat. 
Ord. Ternstromiaceae), an evergreen shrub, of China and 
Japan, whence the markets of the world are supplied. The 
most important constituents of tea are essential oil, (upon 
which the flavor depends), tannic acid, and a crystalline, vola- 
tilizable, nitrogenous alkaloid principle, termed theina. 

II. Caffea — Coffee, the seed of Caffea Arabica, (Nat. Ord. 
Cinchonacese), a small tree, which is a native of Southern 
Arabia and Abyssinia, and is cultivated in various tropical and 
semi-tropical countries. Coffee contains a nitrogenous princi- 
ple, caffeina (C 16 H 10 N 4 O 4 ), which is considered to be identical 
with theina, and two peculiar principles, one resembling tan- 
nin, termed caffeo-tannie acid, and caffeic acid. The volatile 
oil, upon which the flavor depends, is developed by roasting. 
Coffee may be used for the general indications of antispasmo- 
dics, and is besides especially efficacious in relieving the sopor 
produced by opium poisoning. 

III. Theobroma — Chocolate (noticed more at length under 
the head of demulcents — see Oil of Theobroma) contains a 
nitrogenous principle, theobromia, nearly identical in composi- 
tion with caffeina (C 14 H 8 N 4 4 ). 



94 MATERIA MEDICA. 

IV. Erythroxylon Coca — Coca. — The leaves of this plant, 
a shrub, about six feet in height, have long been used as a 
masticatory by the Indians in Peru, for the purpose of enabling 
them to undergo fatigue, hunger, and thirst. Statements have 
been recently made, of the medicinal efficacy of this substance 
as a nervous stimulant, in doses of half an ounce, in infu- 
sion. An alkaloid principle, termed cocaina, has been found in 
cocoa. 

V. Guanara. — This occurs in chocolate-colored cylinders, 
which are worked up from the fruit of Paullinia Sorbilis (Nat. 
Ord. Sapindaceae), a plant of Brazil, where it is used to make 
a common and highly esteemed beverage. It is said to contain 
twice as much theina as the best tea. It is recommended medi- 
cinally, as a tonic, astringent, and antispasmodic. 

VI. Mate.— Under this name, the dried leaves of Ilex Para- 
guaiensis, a small tree or shrub of Paraguay, cultivated also in 
other parts of S. America, are extensively used as a beverage 
throughout the Atlantic region of that continent. Paraguay 
tea, as it is termed, has a balsamic odor and bitter taste, and 
contains a principle identical with caffeina and theina, and also 
tannic acid. 



MOSCHUS — MUSK. 

Musk is a peculiar concrete substance obtained from Mos- 
chus moschiferus, the Musk Deer, an animal rather larger 
than the goat, and resembling the deer in its characters, which 
inhabits the mountainous portions of Central Asia. The musk- 
bag is found only in the male, and lies between the umbilicus 
and prepuce. It is an oval pod, about two and a half inches 
long, and one and a half broad, flat on one side, and convex 
and hairy on the other, and in the full-grown animal contains 
from ojss to 5vj, of a liquid secretion, which, when dried, is 
musk. Two kinds are known in commerce, the China and the 
Russia Musk, the former of which is much the stronger. 

Musk occurs in grains or lumps concreted together, of a red- 
dish-brown color, and has usually some hairs of the pod mixed 



CASTOK. 95 

with it. It has a powerful diffusive, aromatic odor, and a bit- 
terish taste. It is inflammable, leaving a light spongy char- 
coal. On analysis, it yields ammonia and a variety of other 
constituents, but the odorous principle has not been isolated. 
It is partially soluble in water and alcohol, and completely so 
in ether. 

Owing to its high price, musk is greatly sophisticated. 
Sometimes artificial pods are met with, which may be distin- 
guished from the genuine by the absence of the remains of the 
penis and of an aperture in the middle of the hairy coat. The 
musk itself is more frequently adulterated, by mixture with 
dried blood, and a variety of substances. Indeed, little if any 
genuine musk is found in the shops. 

Effects and Uses. — Musk is a powerful excitant and anti- 
spasmodic, without much effect on the cerebral functions. If a 
pure article could be obtained, it would have no superior as a 
direct antispasmodic in the treatment of essential nervous dis- 
orders — hysteria, epilepsy, chorea, and hiccough, and as a com- 
bined excitant and antispasmodic in the latter stages of typhus. 
But it is now a little prescribed, owing to the difficulty of pro- 
curing it good. 

Administration. — It may be given in the form of bolus or 
emulson. Dose, gr. x, to be repeated every two or three 
hours. 

An article, termed Artificial Musk, is made by the addi- 
tion of one part of rectified oil of amber to three parts of nitric 
acid. It resembles musk both in sensible and medicinal pro- 
perties, and has been prescribed in its stead, in the same dose. 



CASTOREUM — CASTOR. 

This is a peculiar concrete substance, found in membra- 
nous follicles, which exist between the anus and external geni- 
tals of the Castor fiber, or Beaver. It occurs in the form of 
solid unctuous masses, contained in pairs of sacs about two 
inches in length, of a brownish-black color externally, and of a 



96 MATERIA MEDICA. 

reddish-brown color internally. It has a peculiar, penetrating, 
disagreeable smell, and a bitter, acrid, nauseous taste. It is 
soluble in alcohol and ether. Castor contains, with other mat- 
ters, a volatile oil, a peculiar neutral crystalline substance, 
termed castorin, and salicin, the bitter principle of the willow. 
According to many authorities, the oil is a derivative of salicin. 
Effects and Uses. — Castor is moderately excitant and anti- 
spasmodic, and is very analogous in its effects to musk. It is 
not much used. Dose of castor in substance, gr. x to gr. xx ; 
of the tincture (two troy ounces to alcohol Oij), f 5j to f 5ij« 



OLEUM SUCCINI RE C TIFIC AT UM — RECTIFIED OIL OF 

AMBER. 

Amber, Succinum, is a sort of fossil resin found in various 
parts of the world, and comes to this country from the shores 
of the Baltic. It is a hard, brittle substance, usually trans- 
lucent, and of a pale golden-yellow color, insipid, and inodorous, 
except when heated. By distillation, it yields an oil which, 
when rectified, is employed medicinally. The oil is nearly 
colorless at first, but gradually becomes brown, has a strong, 
peculiar odor, and a pungent, acrid taste. It is soluble in 
alcohol. An a$id called succinic is also obtained from amber. 

Effects and Uses. — Oil of amber is excitant and antispas- 
modic, and has been used in hysteria, epilepsy, tetanus, per- 
tussis, and amenorrhoea. It is chiefly employed as an external 
application, and is a good remedy in pertussis and convulsions 
of children. Dose of the oil, gtt. v to gtt. xv. For external 
use, it may be mixed with three or four parts of olive oil and 
brandy, with one part of laudanum added. 



OLEUM JTHERBUM — ETHEREAL OIL. 

This substance, known also as oil of wine, is a result of the 
distillation of alcohol with a large excess of sulphuric acid. It 
is a volatile liquid, of a yellowish color and peculiar odor, very 



TONICS. 97 

sparingly soluble in water, but readily dissolved by alcohol or 
ether. It has antispasmodic properties, but is used in medicine 
only as an ingredient of the Compound Spirit of Ether. 



SPIRITUS ^THERIS COMPOSITUS — COMPOUND 
SPIRIT OF ETHER. 

This preparation, known as Hoffman s Anodyne Liquor, is 
a solution of ethereal oil (f5vj), in ether (Oss), and alcohol 
(Oj). It is a volatile liquid, with a burning, slightly sweetish 
taste, and the peculiar odor of ethereal oil. It becomes milky 
on being mixed with water, owing to the precipitation of the 
ethereal oil. 

Effects and Uses. — Hoffman's Anodyne has the antispas- 
modic and stimulant effects of ether, and derives additional tran- 
quillizing and anodyne properties from the ethereal oil present. 
It is much used in hysteria, and is often added to laudanum, to 
prevent the nausea which the latter sometimes excites. Dose, 
f 5j to f Sijj in sweetened water. 



. ORDER IV. — TONICS. 

Tonics, called also corroborants, are medicines which produce 
a gradual and permanent increase of nervous vigor. It is only, 
however, in certain conditions of disease that they manifest this 
invigorating influence : as, in a state of health, they often act 
as irritants, or even nauseants. Their local effects are similar 
to their general effects. They exalt the nervous functions or 
the parts to which they are applied, and increase their firmness 
and density. When taken into the stomach they produce a 
twofold corroborant effect, improving the digestive powers by 
their local action, and strengthening the system generally by 
their cerebro-spinal influence. 

Tonics differ from stimulants only in the more permanent 
character of their effects. The more powerful tonics are 
closely allied to the narcotics in their action, producing, in 

7 



98 MATERIA MEDICA. 

overdoses, giddiness, loss of sight and of hearing, convulsions, 
delirium, and even death. And this analogy is further illus- 
trated by the curative powers of tonics in the relief of painful 
and spasmodic diseases, as neuralgia, rheumatism, chorea, and 
epilepsy. 

The articles* of this class may be divided into vegetable and 
mineral tonics. The vegetable tonics are characterized by 
bitterness; and it is said that they owe their bitterness and 
medicinal activity to a principle which has been termed bitter 
extractive. It is doubtful, however, whether any such proxi- 
mate principle has really been obtained. The mineral tonics 
unite astringent with tonic properties ; and the preparations of 
iron produce a further corroborant effect, by increasing the 
red coloring matter of the blood. 

The therapeutic application of tonics comprises a diversified 
range of diseases. They are employed as stomachics in dys- 
pepsia, and as general corroborants in convalescence from 
acute diseases, in chronic affections accompanied by marasmus 
and cachexia, and in typhus and gangrene. But their most 
striking and valuble powers are shown in their febrifuge in- 
fluence upon malarious diseases. The modus medendi here is 
obscure, but the curative agency is undoubtedly due to a power- 
ful impression upon the central organs of the nervous system. 
The anti-neuralgic and antispasmodic properties of tonics have 
already been alluded to. They also enjoy considerable repu- 
tation in the treatment of chronic bowel-complaints, where they 
act by restoring tone to the debilitated intestinal tube ; and, 
on the other hand, they are often useful as laxatives in torpid 
conditions of the alimentary canal. 



VEGETABLE TONICS. 

The vegetable tonics may be arranged into three sections, 
viz.: 1. The pure bitters. 2. The aromatic bitters, which 
contain a stimulant volatile oil, and are aromatic as well as 
tonic. 3. The astringent bitters, which contain tannic and 



QUASSIA. 99 

gallic acids, and are both astringent and tonic : this group 
contains cinchona, the most powerful and important of the 
vegetable tonics. The bitter principle is found also in many 
medicines belonging to other classes, as rhubarb, aloes, taraxa- 
cum, &c, and gives them tonic properties. 



SIMPLE BITTERS. 
QUASSIA. 

Quassia is the WOOD of Simaruba excelsa (Nat. Ord. Simaru- 
baceae), a lofty tree of Jamaica and other West Indian islands. 
It is imported from the West Indies in billets of various sizes, 
which are found in the shops in the form of chips or raspings. 
Externally, it is covered with a smooth, brittle bark ; the wood 
is white, but becomes yellowish by exposure. It has no odor, 
but an intense permanently bitter taste. Water and alcohol 
extract its virtues, which are said to depend on a neutral prin- 
ciple termed quassin. 

The article originally known as Quassia was the root and wood 
of Quassia amara, a shrub of Surinam, but this does not now 
reach our markets. It is thought to have possessed much 
more decided tonic properties than the drug now found in 
commerce. 

Effects and Uses. — Quassia is a mild tonic, free from stimu- 
lant or astringent effects, and is employed principally in dys- 
pepsia, want of appetite, and other stomachic affections. It is 
much used to give additional bitterness to malt liquors. Dose, 
in powder 3j to 5j, three or four times a day; but the best 
form of administration is that of infusion (5ij to water Oj), in 
doses of fojss to fSiij. An extract (aqueous) is given in the 
dose of gr. v, but it is principally used as an excipient for the 
administration of the mineral tonics. Of the tincture (two 
troyounces to diluted alcohol Oij), the dose is f3j to £5ij. 



100 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



SIMARUBA. 

Siinaruba is the bark of the root of Simaruba officinalis 
(Nat. Ord. Simarubacese), a tall tree of Jamaica and many 
parts of South America. It occurs in long pieces of various 
sizes, which are much rolled or quilled, of a brownish-yellow 
color externally, and yellow internally. It contains a bitter 
principle, analogous to quassin, and resembles quassia in its 
medicinal effects. 



C O P T I S — G OLDTHREAD. 



Coptis trifolia, or Goldthread [Nat. Ord. Ranunculacese), is 
a small, evergreen, herbaceous plant, resembling the strawberry- 
vine, with perennial creeping roots, slender stems, round, ter- 

Fig. 8. 




nate leaves, and a single small white flower, which appears 
through the spring till midsummer. It belongs to the northern 
regions of America and Asia, and abounds in swampy places 



GENTIAN. 101 

in Canada and New England. The parts used are the roots, 
which should be gathered in autumn, and carefully dried. 
They are of a bright-golden color, and give the name by which 
the plant is commonly known. They contain the alkaloid 
berberina. The roots of a variety of coptis, derived from 
Assam in Asia, Coptis teeta, have been introduced into Europe ; 
they possess analogous properties to those of C. trifolia, 

Effects and Uses. — Goldthread is a pure and powerful bitter, 
similar in its effects to quassia, but much more palatable, and 
is a very good stomachic tonic. It is also employed in New 
England as a topical application in aphthous and other ulcera- 
tions of the mouth. It is usually given in the form of tincture 
(one troyounce to diluted alcohol Oj), in the dose of foj, and 
of infusion (half a troyounce to water Oj). 

GENTIAN A — G E N T I A N. 

Gentian is the root of Gentiana lutea or Yellow Gentian 
(J^at. Ord. Gentianacege), a perennial plant of the mountainous 
parts of Central and Southern Europe, growing to the height 
of two or three feet, with broad, ovate, opposite leaves, and 
handsome whorled, yellow flowers. It is imported in cylindrical 
branched pieces, of various sizes, marked by transverse annular 
wrinkles and longitudinal furrows. Externally, it is yellowish- 
brown, internally, brownish-yellow, and of a spongy texture. 
Its odor in the fresh state is peculiar and disagreeable, but 
when dried, feeble ; its taste is intensely bitter. Water and 
alcohol extract its virtues. It contains a peculiar oil and acid, 
pectin, sugar, and a bitter principle, termed gentianin. Other 
species of gentian are employed as substitutes for the yellow 
gentian. 

Effects and Uses. — Gentian is a pure bitter, without either 
astringency or much aroma. In full doses it is more disposed 
to relax the bowels than the other simple bitters; and, like 
others of the vegetable tonics, in excessive doses, it is capable 
of producing narcotic effects. It is an admirable stomachic in 
dyspepsia and gastric disorders, and is also used in the various 
forms of constitutional debility. 



102 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



Administration. — In the form of powder, the dose is gr. x to 
3ss. But it is usually given in the form of infusion (half a 
troyounce to water f^xiv, with diluted alcohol f§ij, and orange- 
peel and coriander, each 5j) ; tincture (tinctura Gentianse com- 
posita, gentian, two troyounces, orange-peel a troyounce, car- 
damon half a troyounce, to diluted alcohol Oij), in the dose of 
f5j to f5ij ; extract, in the dose of gr. x to 5ss ; and fluid extract, 
in the dose of f5ss-j. 

FRASERA — AMERICAN COLUMBO. 

The root of Frasera Walteri (Nat. Ord. Gentianacese), an 
elegant plant of our Southern and Western States, may be used 
as a substitute for gentian and columbo. Dose, 5ss-5j ; or an 
infusion (a troyounce to boiling water Oj), may be given. 



SABBATIA — AMERICAN CENTAURY. 
Fig. 




Sabbatia angularis, American Centaury, or Centaury (Nat. 



COLUMBO. 103 

Ord. Gentianaceae), is a very common annual indigenous plant, 
with an erect stem, one or two feet high, opposite ovate leaves, 
and numerous terminal flowers of a rich rose-color, nearly white 
in the centre. It is found in low meadow-grounds or neglected 
fields in most parts of the United States, and flowers in August 
and September. The whole herb is officinal, and should be 
gathered while in flower. It has a very bitter taste, and yields 
its virtues to both water and alcohol. 

Effects and Uses. — Centaury is a pure bitter, with no astrin- 
gency, and very little aroma. It is an excellent stomachic, 
and may be used also as a general corroborant. It is said to 
act as an emmenagogue when given in warm infusion, and, like 
the bitters generally, has had anthelmintic properties ascribed 
to it. The best form of exhibiting it is infusion (a troyounce, 
to boiling water Oj), of which the dose is a wineglassful when 
cool ; of the powder 5ss to 5j may be given. 



CALUMBA COLUMBO. 

Columbo is the root of Cocculus palmatus (Nat. Ord. Menis- 
permacese), a climbing plant of Mozambique, where it is known 
under the name of Calumb. The root consists of fleshy tubers, 
with numerous offsets, which are the portions used, the main 
root being too fibrous They are sliced, strung on cords, and 
dried in the sun ; and are found in the shops in round pieces 
about a quarter of an inch thick, externally of a brown, wrin- 
kled appearance, and internally yellow. The odor is slightly 
aromatic, and the taste very bitter. Owing to the starch which 
is found in columbo, it is liable to be worm-eaten. It contains, 
besides a large proportion of starch, a peculiar azotized sub- 
stance, and two bitter principles, colombin and berberina. 
Water and alcohol take up its virtues ; and, from its liability to 
attract moisture from the air, it should not be kept in the form 
of powder. 

Effects and Uses. — Columbo is a very agreeable demulcent 
tonic, particularly acceptable to the stomach, and hence well 



104 MATERIA MEDICA. 

adapted to the convalescent stages of acute disorders of the 
bowels and of fevers. It is also a good preparation in the 
sickness of pregnant women, and is one of the best of the 
stomachics in all cases where there is unusual delicacy of the 
stomach. In its native country, it is much employed in the 
treatment of dysentery. • 

Administration. — The dose of the powder is gr. x to gr. xxx. 
It is best given in the form of infusion (half a troyounce to 
boiling water Oj, dose, f§j to fgij), which should be used at 
once, as it is liable to spoil. Of the tincture (four troyounces 
to diluted alcohol Oij), foj to f3iv may be given. Columbo is 
often combined with aromatics, iron, and alkalies, and is some- 
times added to purgative mixtures. 

Berberina, the alkaloid found in columbo, is widely diffused 
in the vegetable kingdom, and is obtained from numerous 
plants of the natural orders Berberacece, Menispermacece, and 
Banunculacece, as barberry, yellow-root, hydrastis, goldthread, 
and others. It has been employed, in the form of muriate and 
sulphate, as a tonic and febrifuge, in doses of from one to ten 
grains. 

CHIRETTA. 

The herb and root of Agathotes Chirayta (Nat Ord. 
Gentianacese), an East Indian plant, have been introduced into 
Europe, under the name of Chiretta or Chirayta, where it now 
ranks among the best simple bitters. It contains a peculiar 
bitter neutral substance, termed chiratin, (C^H^Cy ; in 
medicinal properties, it resembles gentian, and may be used in 
the same way. 



XANTHORRIZA — YELLOW-ROOT. 

The root of Xanthorriza Apiifolia (Nat Ord. Ranuncula- 
ceae), an indigenous shrub, of our Southern and Western 
States, is a good simple bitter, which agrees very well with the 
stomach. 



VIRGINIA SNAKEROOT. 



105 



AROMATIC BITTERS. 
SERPENTARIA — VIRGINIA SNAKEROOT. 

The roots of several species of Aristolochia are known 
under the name of Virginia Snakeroot. The most familiar is 
A. serpentaria {Nat. Ord. Aristolochiaceae), an herbaceous 

Fig. 10. 




indigenous plant, with a perennial root, composed of numerous 
slender fibres, arising from a knotty, brown head, one or more 
stems, eight or ten inches in height, heart-shaped, pointed, 
yellowish-green leaves, and purple, tubular flowers, springing 
up close to the root. It grows in our Southern and South- 



106 MATERIA MEDICA. 

eastern States, in shady woods and on hill-sides, flowering in 
May and June ; but from the great demand for the roots, it has 
become scarce. A. reticulata is a variety found in the South- 
western States. 

Virginia Snakeroot is found in the shops, in tufts of long, 
Blender, matted fibres, attached to a knotty, rugged head. 
They are brittle, and of a yellowish-brown color. The odor is 
aromatic and agreeable ; the taste somewhat pungent, bitter, 
and aromatic. Water and alcohol extract its virtues, which 
depend on the presence of a volatile oil and a bitter principle. 
The roots of A. reticulata are very commonly substituted for 
those of A. serpentaria, from which they differ only in the 
larger size of their fibres. They are quite equal to the latter, 
and are even thought to contain a larger proportion of volatile 
oil. 

Effects and Uses. — Virginia Snakeroot is a combined stimu- 
lant and tonic, with diuretic or diaphoretic properties, accord- 
ing to the mode of its administration. It is much used in the 
latter stages of fevers, and in other acute diseases, and is fre- 
quently combined with Peruvian bark, in the treatment of 
intermittents. The proper form of administration is that of 
infusion (half a troyounce to boiling water Oj), in doses of f §j 
to fgij, repeated. Of the tincture (four troyounces to diluted 
alcohol Oij), the dose is f$j to f5\j ; of the fluid extract, f5ss- 
f5j. Huxhains Tincture of Bark contains Virginia Snake- 
root. 



AN THE MIS — CHAMOMILE. 

Anthemis nobilis, or Chamomile (Nat. Ord. Asteracese), is a 
small, herbaceous, trailing European plant, cultivated exten- 
sively both in Europe and this country. The flowers are 
described by the U. S. Pharmacopoeia as the portion used, but 
the entire heads are really the commercial article. The 
flowers consist of small spheroids, with convex, yellow disks, and 
numerous white, spreading rays. By cultivation they become 



TH0R0UGHW0RT. 107 

double. In Europe the single heads are preferred, as the aro- 
matic properties reside in the disks, which are larger in the 
single-flowered wild plants ; but in this country, the cultivated, 
double heads, which are not inferior in tonic virtues, are used. 
Chamomile flowers have a bitter, aromatic taste, and a strong, 
peculiar odor, both of which are imparted to water and alcohol. 
They contain a volatile oil, bitter extractive, and a little tannic 
acid. 

Effects and Uses. — Chamomile, in small doses, is a mild, 
agreeable aromatic tonic, and in large doses, acts as an emetic. 
The cold infusion is much employed as a stomachic, and the 
hot infusion is given to aid the operation of emetics. The 
flowers, boiled in warm water, form a good fomentation to in- 
flamed parts. The usual form of administration is the infusion 
(half a troyounce to water Oj). Dose, as a stomachic, f gij, 
two or three times a day, cold ; as an emetic, hot, ad libitum. 

Cotula (Mat/weed). Anthemis cotula, Wild chamomile, or 
Mayweed {Nat. Ord. Asteracese), an herbaceous plant, indig- 
enous in Europe, but extensively naturalized in the United 
States, resembles chamomile very closely, both in botanical 
characters and in properties, and is used as a substitute for it 
in domestic practice. 

Matricaria {German Chamomile). The heads of Matri- 
caria chamomilla {Nat. Ord. Asteracese), an annual European 
plant, possess properties very similar to those of chamomile. 
They are considerably smaller than common chamomile, and 
have a larger proportion of disk florets compared with those of 
the ray. They are not much employed in this country. 



EUPATORIUM — THOROUGHWORT. 

Eupatorium perfoliatum, Boneset, or Thoroughwort (Nat. Ord. 
Asteracese), is a very common indigenous plant, growing in wet 
grounds in every part of the United States. It has a perennial 



108 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



root, with numerous herbaceous stems, from two to five feet high, 
long, narrow leaves, perforated by the stems, and numerous 
white flowers, which form a flattened summit to the plant. 



Fig. 11. 













These appear in August, continuing in bloom till October, and 
with the leaves, are the officinal portion. They have a faint 
°dor, a strongly bitter taste, are soluble in water or alcohol, 
and contain a peculiar bitter principle, gum, tannic acid, resin, 
salts, and other matters. 

Effects and Uses. — Thoroughwort is a stimulant tonic, dia- 
phoretic, and expectorant, and in large doses proves emetic 
and laxative. It is a good stomachic in dyspepsia, and, from 
its combined corroborant, expectorant, and diaphoretic proper- 
ties, is an excellent remedy in the latter stages of pneumonia 
and bronchitis. It is also used with good effect in rheumatism, 
and in intermittent, remittent and typhoid fevers. It should 



TULIP-TREE BARK. 109 

be given in infusion (a troyounce to boiling water Oj), fSij of 
which may be taken cold, as a stomachic, three or four times a 
day, and in freer warm draughts as a diaphoretic. 



ABSINTHIUM — WORMWOOD. 

The tops and leaves of Artemisia Absinthium, or Worm- 
wood (Nat. Ord. Asteracese), a European plant, naturalized in 
New England, are ranked among the aromatic bitters, but are 
not now much employed. They may be given in infusion (a 
troyounce to boiling water Oj). 



MAGNOLIA. 

The barks of Magnolia glauca, Magnolia acuminata, and 
Magnolia tripelata (Nat. Ord. Magnoliacese), indigenous trees, 
remarkable for the beauty of their foliage, and the size and 
fragrance of their flowers, are officinal, and rank with the 
aromatic bitters. The barks of the trunk, branches, and root, 
are alike officinal ; but those of the last are the most active. 
They contain a volatile oil, a green resin, and a peculiar crys- 
tallizable bitter principle. The aromatic property is impaired 
by drying, and is lost when the barks are long kept. 

They are used as gentle stimulant tonics and diaphoretics, in 
the low stages of fever, rheumatism, &c. An infusion may be 
given, but 'the best solvent is diluted alcohol. 



LIRIODENDRON — TULIP-TREE BARK. 

The bark of Liriodendron tulipifera, the Tulip-tree, or 
American Poplar (Nat. Ord. Magnoliacese), the well-known 
pride of the American forest, remarkable for its size, foliage, 
and beautiful tulip-shaped flowers, closely resembles those of 
magnolia in its medicinal properties, but is less aromatic and 
more stimulant. It is said to contain a peculiar principle, 



HO MATERIA MEDICA. 

termed liriodendrin. It may be given in powder, in the dose 
of 3j to 5ij ; and in infusion, decoction, and tincture. 



ANGUSTUR A — A NGUSTURA BARK. 

Angustura bark is derived from Galipea officinalis {Nat. 
Ord. Rutacese), a small tree of the district of country bor- 
dering on the Orinoco, in South America. It occurs in pieces 
of various lengths and sizes ; sometimes flat, sometimes slightly 
curved, but rarely entirely quilled. Externally, it is of a 
light-gray color, and is covered with lichens, with a soft, spongy 
epidermis, which is readily scraped off; internally, the color is 
yellowish-brown. It has a disagreeable smell, and a bitter, 
aromatic, somewhat pungent taste. It imparts its virtues to 
water and alcohol, and contains a volatile oil and a bitter prin- 
ciple, termed cusparin. The bark of Strychnos nux vomica 
has been sometimes mixed with Angustura bark, and is thence 
known as false angustura bark. 

Effects and Uses. — Angustura bark is a stimulating tonic, 
and in large doses acts on the stomach and bowels. From its 
liability to adulteration with the bark of strychnos nux vomica, 
it has fallen into disuse, and it has no superiority over serpen- 
taria and others of the indigenous aromatic bitters. Dose, in 
powder, gr. x to 5ss ; of the infusion (half a troyounce to boil- 
ing water Oj), f§ij, repeated. 



CASCARILLA. 

This is the bark of Croton Eleuteria {Nat. Ord. Euphor- 
biacese), a small tree of the Bahamas and other West India 
islands. It occurs sometimes in the form of small, thin frag- 
ments — sometimes in that of rolled pieces, one or two inches 
long, occasionally longer, and varying in size from that of a 
quill to that of the little finger. It is usually covered with a 
white rugous epidermis, and is of a brown color beneath. It 
has a warm, spicy, and bitter taste, and an aromatic, agreeable 



YARROW. Ill 

odor, which is particularly fragrant when it is burned. It yields 
its properties to alcohol, and partially to water ; and con- 
tains volatile oil, resin, and a bitter principle, called casca- 
rillin. 

Effects and Uses. — Cascarilla is a very pleasant aromatic 
bitter, causing neither vomiting nor purging, and hence agree- 
ing very well with the stomach. It may be given in powder 
in the dose of 3j to 5ss ; but this is a less agreeable form than 
the infusion (a troyounce to boiling water Oj), of which the 
dose is fgij. 



CANELLA. 

This is the bark of Canella alba [Nat. Ord. Meliaceae), a 
large tree of the West Indies and South America. It comes 
in quilled pieces of a whitish-yellow color, or in flat fragments, 
which are thicker and darker. It has an aromatic odor, and a 
warm, pungent, aromatic, and somewhat bitter taste. It im- 
parts its virtues to alcohol, and partially to water ; and con- 
tains volatile oil, resin, bitter extractive, gum, &c. 

Effects and Uses. — An aromatic tonic, little employed ex- 
cept in combination. JPulvis Aloes et Canella? [Powder of 
Aloes and Canella), popularly known as hiera picra, consists of 
aloes four parts, canella owe part; dose, gr. x to 3j. 



ACHILLEA — YARROW". 

Achillea Millefolium, Milfoil, or Yarrow (Nat. Ord. Com- 
posite Senecionideae) a perennial herb, common to the old and 
new continents, growing to the height of twelve or eighteen 
inches, with doubly pinnate, minutely divided leaves, and whitish 
flowers, possesses mild stimulant tonic properties, with some 
astringency. The U. S. Pharmacopoeia directs the herb and 
flowers of this plant, but the tops and leaves are the portion 
to be employed. Of the infusion, made in the proportion of an 
ounce to the pint, a wineglassful or more may be given. It 



112 MATERIA MEDICA. 

yields a volatile oil, which has been used in the dose of 20 or 
30 drops. 



ANGELICA. 

The root of Angelica Archangelica (Nat. Ord. Apiacese), a 
plant of the Northern and mountainous sections of Europe, is 
used as a stimulant tonic, in the dose of 5ss-5j ; or an infusion 
may be given. 

ASTRINGENT BITTERS. 
CINCHONA PERUVIAN BARK. 

The name of Cinchona (derived from the Countess del Cin- 
chon, wife of a viceroy of Peru) is applied to the bark of dif- 
ferent species of Cinchona (Nat. Ord. Cinchonaceae), large 
trees which grow in the mountainous regions of the western 
portions of South America, from the nineteenth degree of south 
latitude to about the. tenth degree of north latitude. Three 
principal varieties of cinchona are known in commerce : Cin- 
chona Flava (Yellow Bark), called in commerce Calisaya Bark, 
derived from Cinchona Calisaya; Cinchona Pallida (Pale 
Bark), called in commerce Loxa and Lima Bark, derived from 
Cinchona Condaminea and Cinchona Micrantha ; and Cinchona 
Rubra (Red Bark), derived from Cinchona Succirubra. 

Peruvian Bark is brought to the United States from the 
Pacific ports of South America. It is obtained by stripping 
the trunks and branches of the Cinchona trees during the dry 
season, and is dried by exposure to the sun, during which pro- 
cess the smaller pieces usually become quilled. 

1. The Yellow or Calisaya Bark comes both in quilled and 
flat pieces. The former are from three or four inches to a foot 
and a half long, from a quarter of an inch to two or three 
inches in diameter, and of variable thickness. They have a 
brownish epidermis (with longitudinal wrinkles and trans- 
verse fissures), which possesses none of the virtues of the 



PERUVIAN BARK. 113 

bark. The bark itself is one or two lines thick, compact, of a 
short, fibrous texture, and when broken presents shining points. 
The flat pieces, which are derived from the larger branches and 
trunk, are usually destitute of epidermis, are more roughly 
marked externally, and are of a browner hue than the quilled 
pieces. They are also less compact, less bitter, and of less 
medicinal virtue. The yellow bark is distinguished from the 
other barks by its much more bitter taste ; its comparative 
freedom from astringency ; its brownish-yellow, somewhat 
orange color, which is still brighter in the powder ; and by 
containing a large proportion of quinia with very little cin- 
chonia. 

2. The Pale Bark comes in cylindrical pieces of variable 
length, sometimes singly, sometimes doubly quilled, from two 
lines to an inch in diameter, and from half a line to two or 
three lines in thickness — the best kinds being about the size of 
a goose-quill. Their exterior surface is rough, marked with 
fissures, and of a grayish color, owing to adhering lichens. 
Their interior surface is of a cinnamon color, and, in the finer 
sorts, smooth. The color of the powder is a pale fawn. The 
taste is moderately bitter, and somewhat astringent ; the odor 
feeble, but rather aromatic in the powder and decoction. The 
pale barks contain a much larger proportion of cinchonia than 
of quinia ; and, from their yielding little quinia, have fallen 
into disuse in the United States. 

3. The Med Bark usually comes in large, thick, flat pieces ; 
sometimes also in quills from half an inch to two inches in 
diameter. They are covered with a reddish-brown, rugged 
epidermis, beneath which is a dark-red, brittle, and compact 
layer, the interior parts being woody and fibrous, and of a 
lively brownish-red color. The taste of red bark is bitter and 
astringent ; its odor not different from that of the other barks ; 
its powder is reddish. It contains considerable quantities both 
of quinia and cinchonia. 

Under the name of Carthagena Barks, several common 
varieties of cinchona were long brought to this country from 
the northern Atlantic ports of South America. They were of 



114 MATERIA MEDICA. 

inferior quality, and were therefore not recognized by the 
Pharmacopoeias ; but, since the reduced supply and consequent 
high price of the Calisaya bark, large quantities of very good 
bark have been imported from New Granada, and are now used 
in the manufacture of quinia, under the name of Colombian barks. 

Within a few years, the cultivation of several varieties of 
Cinchona trees has been successfully introduced into Southern 
India ; and valuable specimens of red bark (the product of C. 
Succirubra), equal to that of South America, have been sent to 
Europe. 

Chemical Constituents. — The most important constituents of 
cinchona are two alkaline principles, termed quinia and cincho- 
nia, which exist chiefly in combination with an acid called hinie. 
These alkalies are found in different proportions in the different 
barks, quinia being obtained from the yellow bark most abundant- 
ly, cinchonia from the pale bark, and the two principles in about 
equal proportion from the red bark. Two other valuable alkaloids, 
quinidia and cincJionidia, are found (also as kinates), most 
abundantly in the pale and Cartliagcna barks ; but, to a certain 
extent, in all. Other principles found in cinchona are cincho- 
tannic acid, coloring matter, kinovic acid, starch, fatty matter, 
kinate of lime, lignin, &c. Gum is found in the pale bark, 
but not in the yellow or red bark. 

Quinia is obtained in the following manner : Powdered 
yellow bark is boiled in water acidulated with muriatic acid, by 
which the alkali is separated from its combination with kinic 
and other acids, to form a soluble muriate. By the addition 
of lime, this salt is decomposed, and quinia precipitated. It 
is separated from insoluble impurities by digestion in boiling 
alcohol, and, after being concentrated, is decolorized by means 
of animal charcoal. Or, it may be obtained by heating the 
sulphate with an alkaline solution. It occurs in the form of 
fine crystalline needles of a silky lustre, or as a loose white 
powder ; it is inodorous, very bitter, sparingly soluble in cold 
water, but somewhat more readily so in hot water, readily 
soluble in alcohol, ether, and the fixed and volatile oils.. It 
unites with acids to form salts, the most important of which is 



PERUVIAN BARK. 115 

the officinal salt, the sulphate. Its composition is C 40 H 24 N 2 O r 
Quinia and its salts may be distinguished from all other vege- 
table alkalies and their salts (excepting quinidia), by striking 
an emerald-green color, when heated first with solution of 
chlorine and then with ammonia. Cinchonia is a white crystal- 
line substance, less bitter than quinia, almost insoluble in cold 
water, very soluble in boiling alcohol, and slightly soluble in 
ether and the fixed and volatile oils. Its composition is 
C 40 H 21 N 2 O 2 . It is distinguishable from quinia by striking a 
white precipitate, when chlorine water and afterwards ammonia 
are added ; with ferrocyanide of potassium, a yellowish-white 
precipitate ensues. Cinchonia being insoluble in ether, while 
quinia is soluble in that menstruum, the latter may by this 
means be readily separated from the former alkaloid. The 
medicinal properties of quinia and cinchonia are analogous, and 
the sulphate of cinchonia is now officinal. Quinidia is isomeric 
with quinia, but more crystallizable and less soluble in ether ; 
its salts strike a white precipitate with solution of iodide of 
potassium. Cinchonidia is isomeric with cinchonia. It is 
usually found mixed with quinidia, the mixture being known as 
commercial quinidia. The commercial sulphate of quinidia 
(which is more soluble in water and alcohol than the sulphate 
of quinia), may be used as a substitute for the latter salt. 

Incompatibles. — The alkalies and alkaline earths precipitate 
the alkaline principles of cinchona ; tannic acid, and the tinc- 
ture and compound solution of iodine, form with them insoluble 
compounds. 

Physiological Effects. — The topical effects of cinchona are 
slightly irritant, and, from the tannic acid which it contains, 
astringent. Its constitutional action upon persons in health, 
results in a disordered condition of the stomach, and of the 
vascular and cerebro-spinal systems, as shown by gastro-enteric 
irritation, fever, headache, and giddiness. But, in persons 
suffering from debility, it proves a most energetic stomachic 
and corroborant ; and over certain morbid conditions, as mala- 
rious and other fevers, it exercises a control more striking 
than is shown by any other medicinal agent, in the treatment 
of diseases. 



11(3 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Medicinal Uses.— The most important therapeutic employ- 
ment of bark is as a febrifuge in the treatment of fevers of a 
malarious origin. Its efficacy in these diseases was first made 
known to the world by the Jesuit missionaries in Peru, from 
whom it was called Jesuit's powder. The type of malarious 
fever in which the powers of bark are most strikingly displayed, 
is intermittent ; the non-malignant and uncomplicated forms of 
which it rarely if ever fails to control. It may be given in 
these cases almost from the very onset of the attack, unless 
contraindicated by the presence of gastric irritability, which 
must be first removed by an emetic or mercurial purge. In 
remittent fevers, bark is scarcely less useful than in intermit- 
tents ; and most physicians who practise in malarious districts, 
now concur in recommending its exhibition in these fevers, as 
soon as it can be borne well by the stomach, without waiting 
for a remission. In ike pernicious or congestive forms of inter- 
mittent and remittent fevers, the early administration of large 
doses of bark or its preparation, the sulphate of quinia, in com- 
bination with stimulants, is imperatively demanded ; and the 
hypodermic injection of the sulphate of quinia may here be 
necessary. As a prophylactic against malarious fever, the use 
.of the preparations of bark is very efficacious. In the varieties 
of typhus, including that termed cerebro-spinal meningitis, the 
salts of quinia, in full doses, are generally resorted to, in con- 
junction with abundant alcoholic stimulation and nourishment. 
In yellow fever, the declining stages of typhoid fever, the 
malignant exanthemata, gangrene, malignant erysipelas, car- 
buncle, extensive suppurations, the typhoid forms of diseases 
generally, the hectic of phthisis, acute rheumatism, diarrhoea, 
dysentery, and cholera, and various disorders of the nervous 
system, as neuralgia, tetanus, and chorea, bark and its prepa- 
rations are constantly employed. It is also much used as a 
stomachic and general tonic, but where gastric susceptibility 
exists, as in convalescence from acute diseases, some of the 
simple bitters are preferable. Topically, bark is employed as 
an astringent and antiseptic. 

Administration. — The use of bark, in powder, since the dis- 



PERUVIAN BARK. 117 

covery of sulphate of quinia, has been very much abandoned, 
owing to its bulk and disagreeable taste. When exhibited in 
this form, half a troyounce to an ounce is the dose as a febri- 
fuge, given usually in divided amounts ; as a tonic, Sj. The 
following officinal preparations are employed : decoction (a troy- 
ounce of yellow or red bark to Oj of water, to be boiled for ten 
minutes, and aromatic sulphuric acid f5j may be afterwards 
added), dose, foij, repeated; infusion (a troyounce of yellow or 
red bark to water Oj, to which aromatic sulphuric acid f5j may 
be added), dose f§ij repeated; extract (of yellow bark), dose gr. 
x to gr. xxx, equivalent to 5j of bark; fluid extract (yellow), 
dose, f5ij\ equal to 5j of bark ; tincture (six troy ounces of yel- 
low bark to diluted alcohol Oij), dose, f5j to f5iv ; compound 
tincture or Huxhams tincture (containing red bark four troy- 
ounces, bitter orange-peel three troyounces, serpentaria three 
hundred and sixty grains, saifron and red saunders each one 
hundred and twenty grains, to diluted alcohol Oijss), dose, f 5j 
to f5iv. In prescribing bark, opium or port wine is often given 
with it, when it acts on the bowels. It is also occasionally 
combined with serpentaria. And, when the stomach will not 
retain it, it has been used externally in the form of cataplas- 
mata, pediluvia, hark jackets, &c, though in such cases it may 
be' administered by the rectum, and the endermic or even the 
hypodermic exhibition of the sulphate of quinia may be re- 
sorted to. 

Quinize Sulphas {Sulphate of Quinia). This salt is pre- 
pared by treating quinia (as obtained from yellow bark in the 
process described at p. 114), with sulphuric acid. It occurs in 
fine, silky, rather flexible, needle-shaped crystals (interlaced 
among one another, or grouped in small starlike tufts), which 
are odorless, very bitter, and slightly efflorescent. It is solu- 
ble in boiling water, alcohol, and the diluted acids, very slightly 
soluble in ether and in cold water, but, by the addition of 
sulphuric acid, it is converted into a more soluble neutral sul- 
phate. The officinal sulphate is chemically a disulphate or sub- 
sulphate, consisting of two equivalents of base to one of acid. 



118 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Various substances are mixed as adulterations with the sulphate 
of quinia. They may be detected by adverting to their relative 
solubility in different menstrua, as compared with the sulphate, 
or by chemical tests. Thus, gum and starch are left behind by 
alcohol ; salicin becomes red on contact with sulphuric acid, &c. 

Effects and Uses. — The effects of sulphate of quinia on the 
system are the same as those of Peruvian bark, and, from its 
being less apt to disagree with the stomach, it has to a great 
extent superseded the use of the latter. In large doses it pro- 
duces headache, ringing of the ears, and sometimes vertigo, 
amaurosis, deafness, delirium, dilatation of the pupils, and 
other evidences of a powerful action on the cerebro-spinal 
system. 

Administration — The ordinary dose of the sulphate of quinia, 
as a febrifuge, is gr. xvi, equal to about §j of bark, but as much 
as twenty grains, and even more, are often required; as a gene- 
ral tonic, gr. j to gr. vj. It may be given in pill, or dissolved 
in some aromatic water, by the aid of aromatic sulphuric acid ; 
also as an enema, or hypodermically. The solution has been 
used externally in gonorrhoea, &c. Many other salts of quinia 
than the sulphate have been introduced into practice, but they 
possess no advantage over the officinal salt. 

Quinle Valerianas (Valerianate of Quinia), is obtained 
by dissolving freshly precipitated quinia in diluted valerianic 
acid. It occurs in transparent or white rhomboidal crystals, of 
the peculiar odor of valerianic acid, and an acrid, bitter taste. 
Soluble in alcohol and ether, and partially soluble in water. 
It fulfils the indications of quinia and valerianic acid, and is 
therefore especially useful in nervous disorders. 

Crude Quinia is the impure quinia obtained from the manu- 
facturer, before separation from the insoluble impurities. It 
is a soft solid, of resinous aspect, nearly free from bitterness, 
and may be given to children in the same doses as the sulphate. 

Quinoidia, quinoidine, or amorphous quinia, is a substance 
obtained by precipitation, with an alkaline carbonate, from the 
mother liquor left after the preparation of sulphate of quinia. 
When moderately heated, it appears as a resinous mass, of a 



DOGWOOD. 119 

yellowish-white or brownish color, which, according to Liebig, 
bears the same relation to ordinary quinia that uncrystallizable 
sugar bears to the crystallizable. The quinia in this prepara- 
tion is thought to be converted, by the action of heat, into an 
isomeric alkaloid, termed quinicia; and by the same action, 
cinchonia is converted into an isomeric alkaloid, termed cincho- 
nicia. It is considered equally efficacious with quinia, but 
requires doses rather larger than the sulphate of quinia, than 
which it is much more economical. 

Cinchonle Sulphas {Sulphate of Cinchonia), is made from 
the mother waters remaining after the crystallization of sul- 
phate of quinia. Being the most soluble of the sulphates of 
the four alkaloids found in bark, it remains in solution after 
the sulphate of quinia, and the mixed sulphate of cinchonidia 
and quinidia, have crystallized out. From the mother waters, 
it is precipitated by solution of soda, then washed with alcohol, 
next reconverted into a sulphate, and boiled with animal char- 
coal to decolorize it. It occurs in short, oblique, shining 
prisms, of a very bitter taste, more soluble in water than the 
sulphate of quinia, readily soluble by alcohol, and sparingly so 
by ether. It is a disulphate. It is now admitted to have the 
same remedial properties as the sulphate of quinia, but requires 
rather larger doses. 



CORN US FLORIDA DOGWOOD. 

Cornus Florida, or Dogwood {Nat. Orel. Cornacese), is an 
indigenous tree, found in most parts of the United States, and 
growing in the Middle States to the height of from fifteen to 
twenty feet. Its flowers are remarkable for large four-leaved 
white or pinkish involucres, which appear with us in May. 
The officinal portion is the bark, that of the root being pre- 
ferred. It occurs in pieces of various sizes, more or less 
rolled, of a reddish-gray color, with occasionally a fawn-colored 
epidermis. Its odor is slight ; its taste bitter, astringent, and 
slightly aromatic. It yields its virtues to water and alcohol, 



120 MATERIA MEDICA. 

and contains resin, a peculiar bitter principle; tannic and gallic 
acids, &c. 

Fig. 12. 




Effects and Uses. — Dogwood is deservedly esteemed the best 
substitute for cinchona among the native astringent bitters. It 
is somewhat stimulant, and not unfrequently disorders the 
stomach. Dose, in powder, 3j to 5j ; of the decoction (a troy- 
ounce to water Oj), f§ij may be given. 



SALIX — WILLOW. 



The bark of Salix alba, or the White Willow {Nat. Ord. 
Salicaceae), is ranked among the astringent bitters. It is little 
employed, however, except in the form of salicine, its active 
principle (C 26 H 18 14 ), which consists of white, slender, silky 
crystals, inodorous, but very bitter, soluble in water and alco- 



WILD-CHERRY BARK. 121 

hoi, but not in ether. It has been used as a substitute for the 
sulphate of quinia, but it is very inferior to it as a febrifuge. 
As a general tonic, however, it is useful, and may be given in 
the dose of from gr. x to gr. xxx. The sulphate of quinia is 
often adulterated with salicine, but the fraud may be detected 
by the addition of concentrated sulphuric acid, which strikes a 
blood-red color with salicine. 



PRUNUS VIRGINIANA — WILD-CHERRY BARK. 

The wild-cherry has long been known under the name of 
Prunus Virginiana, which is still retained by the Pharmaco- 
poeia. This name, however, belongs to another tree, the choke- 
cherry ; and the wild-cherry is now properly distinguished as 
Cerasus serotina (Nat. Ord. Drupacese). It is a large indige- 
nous tree, attaining a great height and size in the Southwestern 
States, but usually with us about twenty-five to thirty feet 
high. The trunk is covered with a rough blackish bark, 
which detaches itself semicircularly ; the leaves are ovate, 
oblong, and acuminate ; the flowers, which appear in May, are 
white, and are followed by fruit about the size of a pea, of a 
purplish black color, and a not unpleasant bitterish taste. The 
medicinal portion is the inner bark of the root and tree, the 
former of which is the more active. It is found in the shops, 
in pieces of various lengths and sizes, deprived of the epidermis 
and slightly curved, of a reddish-brown color, and a bitter 
aromatic taste. 

It contains a bitter principle, resin, starch, and tannic and 
gallic acids, and yields on distillation a volatile oil, nearly 
identical with the oil of bitter almonds, which does not pre- 
exist in the bark, but is formed by the action of water on 
amygdalin through the agency of an albuminous principle 
termed emulsin, as in the bitter almond. The leaves also yield 
this oil. Boiling water impairs the virtues of the bark. 

Effects and Uses. — Wild-cherry bark is tonic, with some 
astringency, and at the same time exercises a sedative influence 



122 MATERIA MEDICA. 

on the nervous and circulatory systems, owing to the hydro- 
cyanic acid, which is developed in it. It is used with excellent 
effect as a sedative corroborant in various forms of pulmonary 
irritation, particularly in the latter stages of pneumonia, and 
in the hectic of phthisis. It is also a useful stomachic and 
tonic in a variety of cases. The proper form of administration 
is the infusion (half a troyounce to cold water Oj), in the dose 
of fgij twice or thrice daily. Of the fluid extract (of which a 
fluidounce represents half an ounce of the bark), the dose is 
f5j-ij. The syrup is made by percolating five troyounces of 
the coarsely powdered bark with water till a pint of filtered 
liquor is obtained, and afterwards adding twenty-eight troy- 
ounces of sugar ; it is an agreeable preparation ; dose, fgss. 



NECTANDRA. 

The bark of Nectandra Rodiei {Nat. Ord. Lauraceae), the 
Greenheart tree, a large tree of Guiana, and the neighboring 
countries of South America, has, w T ithin a few years, been 
introduced into medicine, under the name of bebeeru bark. It 
occurs in large, flat, heavy pieces, one to two feet long, from 
two to six inches broad, and three or four lines thick, of a 
grayish-brown color on its outer surface, and a dark cinnamon 
on the inner. It has an intensely bitter, somewhat astringent 
taste, and contains tannic acid, resin, gum, &c, and two 
alkaloids, which have been isolated, termed bebeerina (C 18 H 21 
O s N), and nectandra (C 20 H 23 O 4 N). Bebeeru bark is employed 
as a febrifuge and tonic in South America, and the sulphate of 
bebeerina has been used in Europe and this country with some 
success in the treatment of intermittent fevers. The full dose 
is 3j-5j. 

The roots of Geum rivale, or Water Avens, and Spiraea 
tomentosa, or Hardback (Nat. Ord. Rosacea), and the bark of 
Prinos verticillatus, or Black Alder (Nat. Ord. Aquifolacese), 
are indigenous astringent tonics of considerable pow T er. 



PREPARATIONS OF IRON. 123 

PEPSINE. 

In connection with the subject of stomachic tonics, this 
article is entitled to brief mention. It is prepared from the 
rennets either of the calf, sheep, or pig, taken from the animal 
as soon as killed. These are washed under a thin stream of 
water. The internal membranes are then carefully scraped off, 
and macerated in water for two hours at a temperature of 59° 
F., and then strained through a coarse cloth. The pepsine in 
the solution is then precipitated by acetate of lead, allowed to 
settle, and the-supernatant liquid poured off; a current of sul- 
phuretted hydrogen is passed through the semi-liquid deposit, 
which precipitates the lead in the form of sulphuret. The pure 
pepsine remains in solution, which is then filtered, and evapo- 
rated to dryness at a uniform temperature of 113° F. Pepsine 
is now a good deal used in dyspepsia, and may be given in doses 
of 15 grains before each meal, suspended in syrup of orange- 
peel or other syrup, to disguise its disagreeable taste. It has 
been applied externally, in strong solution, to dissolve the 
exudation^of diphtheria. 

MINERAL TONICS. 
FERRI PR^IPARATA — PREPARATIONS OF IRON. 

The preparations of Iron (Ferruginea), termed also Chaly- 
beates and Martial preparations, are the most important of the 
mineral tonics. Besides their local tonic-astringent effect and 
their general corroborant action on the cerebro-spinal system, 
which they possess in common with the other mineral tonics, 
they exercise a restorative influence on the composition of the 
blood, by increasing the number of its coloring particles, and 
the amount of its solid constituents. Their effects are best 
observed in conditions of the system in which there is a want 
of these elements of the blood. Under the use of chalybeates 
in such cases, while the digestive functions are promoted, the 
pulse becomes fuller and stronger, the skin assumes a healthy 



124 MATERIA MEDICA. 

tint, the lips and cheeks become more florid, the temperature 
of the body is increased, and the muscular strength is greatly 
invigorated. On the other hand, the administration of the 
ferruginous preparations in health, or too long continued, 
produces symptoms of plethora, vascular excitement, and a 
tendency to congestion and hemorrhage. 

The diseases in which chalybeates are most serviceable are 
those which depend on a deficiency of the red corpuscles of the 
blood, as the various forms of anaemia, particularly where this 
is connected with irregularity of the uterine functions ; also, 
scrofula, tuberculosis, and cachectic conditions of the system, 
characterized by a pale flabby condition of the solids. Many 
forms of nervous disorder, as neuralgia, chorea, hysteria, and 
epilepsy, are very decidedly controlled by the preparations of 
iron, and they probably constitute the best remedies in these 
affections, when attended with anaemia. Several of the prepa- 
rations of iron are also much employed both as stomachics and 
astringents. 

The following are the officinal preparations of iron : 

Ferrum Redactum {Reduced Iron). Metallic iron is ob- 
tained for medicinal purposes in the form of an impalpable 
powder, by reducing the sesquioxide (officinally subcarbonate) 
by passing a stream of hydrogen gas over it. It is a light, 
tasteless, insoluble iron-gray powder, and should be kept in a 
well-stoppered bottle, owing to its great liability to oxidation. 
This preparation, sometimes called Quevenne's Iron, is a mild 
chalybeate, and is a favorite prescription with many practi- 
tioners, in the treatment of chlorosis and other varieties of 
anaemia. Dose, gr. v to gr. x three times a day, in the form of 
pill, made with sugar and gum ; it is sometimes prepared with 
chocolate in the form of lozenges. 

Ferri Oxidum Hydrattjm (Sydrated Oxide of Iron). This 
preparation (Fe 2 3 +2HO) is made by precipitating the sesqui- 
oxide from its combination in any tersalt of iron by means of 
ammonia. Officinally, the tersulphate of iron is employed for 
this purpose. When dry it is a reddish-brown powder, and is 
not considered an eligible preparation for medicinal use. It is 



PREPARATIONS OF IRON. 125 

furnished in the form of a soft, moist, reddish-brown magma, 
for use as an antidote to arsenious acid. 

Ferri Oxidum Saccharatum. The Saccharated Oxide 
of Iron is not officinal, but has lately been introduced as a 
chalybeate, and also as an antidote to arsenious acid. It is 
prepared by dissolving iron wire in nitric acid, adding sugar, 
and afterwards sugar dissolved in water of ammonia, and finally 
precipitating with alcohol and again mixing with sugar. It is 
a dark-brown inodorous, tasteless powder, readily soluble in 
water and diluted alcohol (C 12 H 9 9 -f-2Fe 2 3 +6HO, containing 
43.59 pr. ct. Fe 2 3 ). Dose, gr. v to gr. xxx three times a day. 

Ferri Subcarbonas (Subcarbonate of Iron). This salt is 
obtained by the double reaction of solutions of sulphate of iron 
and carbonate of soda. It is at first a white precipitate ; but 
by exposure to the air it becomes greenish, and afterwards rust- 
colored, being converted nearly entirely into the sesquioxide by 
the absorption of oxygen, and the evolution of carbonic acid. 
It has a disagreeable, slightly styptic taste, is insoluble in water, 
but readily dissolves in hydrochloric and sulphuric acids, and 
carbonic acid water. It is one of the most valuable of the fer- 
ruginous compounds, free from local irritation, and readily dis- 
solved in the fluids of the stomach; and is much employed in 
chlorosis, chorea, neuralgia, and even pertussis and tetanus. 
Dose, gr. v to.gr. xxx, three times a day. 

Trochisci Ferri Subcarbonatis [Troches of Subcarbonate of 
Iron), are made with subcarbonate of iron five troyounces, 
vanilla sixty grains, sugar fifteen troyounces, and a sufficient 
quantity of mucilage of tragacanth — the mass to be divided into 
troches, each weighing twenty grains ; each lozenge contains 
about five grains of the subcarbonate. 

JEmplastrum Ferri (Plaster of Iron), is made with subcarbo- 
nate of iron three troyounces, lead-plaster twenty-four troy- 
ounces, and Burgundy pitch six troyounces. 

Pilule Ferri Carbonatis (Pills of Carbonate of Iron). — 
Vailed s Ferruginous Pills. To protect the carbonate of iron 
from oxidation, it is prepared (as in the process last described) 
by dissolving the reacting salts in weak syrup instead of water: 



1215 MATERIA MEDICA. 

honey and sugar being afterwards added, to preserve it unal- 
tered and bring it to the pilular consistence. This preparation, 
from its unchangeableness, is preferred to the ordinary subcar- 
bonate, and is one of the most popular of the chalybeates. It 
contains nearly half its weight of carbonate of the protoxide of 
iron. From five to twenty grains of the pilular mass may be 
taken in divided doses through the day. 

Mistura Ferri Composita {Compound Mixture of Iron), is a 
mixture of the carbonate of iron (prepared by the reaction of 
sulphate of iron twenty grains, and carbonate of potassa 
twenty-five grains), with myrrh sixty grains, spirit of lavender 
half a fluidounce, and rose-water seven fluidounces and a half, 
and sugar sixty grains to resist oxidation. It is a favorite 
chalybeate in chlorosis and amenorrhcea. Dose, f5j to fSij, 
three times a day. 

Pilulce Ferri Compositce {Compound Pills of Iron), are pre- 
pared with carbonate of soda and sulphate of iron each sixty 
grains, myrrh one hundred and twenty grains, and syrup, the 
mass to be divided into eighty pills. Dose, from two to six 
pills three times a day. Both these preparations should be 
made only as wanted for use. 

Ferri Sulphas {Sulphate of Iron), known, in its impure 
state, as green vitriol or copperas, is prepared for medicinal use 
by dissolving iron wire in diluted sulphuric acid, with heat. It 
is a sulphate of the protoxide, (FeO,S0 3 + 7HO), and occurs in 
transparent, pale bluish-green crystals, of an acrid styptic taste, 
soluble in water, but insoluble in alcohol. By exposure to the 
air, they effloresce, absorb oxygen, and become yellowish- 
white, from the formation of sulphate of the sesquioxide. 
When heated to 212°, they give out six of their seven equiva- 
lents of water, and are converted into a grayish-white mass, 
known as the dried sulphate. Sulphate of iron is one of the 
most active of the ferruginous preparations, but its local 
effects are powerfully astringent, and in a concentrated form 
it acts as an irritant poison. It is preferred to other chaly- 
beates, where there is much relaxation of the solids, with 
excessive discharges ; but it is not so well adapted to a long- 



PREPARATIONS OF IRON. 127 

continued use, on account of its local irritant action. Topi- 
cally, it is employed in substance and solution, as a styptic and 
astringent. Dose, gr. j to gr. v, in pill ; of the dried sulphate 
{Jerri sulphas exsiecata), gr. ss to gr. iij. 

Liquor Ferri Tersulphatis (Solution of Tersulphate of 
Iron). This preparation is made by dissolving 12 troyounces 
of the sulphate (of the protoxide) of iron in a mixture of 2 troy- 
ounces and 60 grains of sulphuric and a troyounce and 360 
grains of nitric acid, with water enough to make a pint 
and a half of solution. The nitric acid furnishes oxygen 
to the protoxide of iron which converts it into a sesqui- 
oxide, and the* sulphuric acid gives the additional acid 
required to saturate the sesquioxide. (It is Fe 2 3 3S0 3 ). 
This solution is a clear, reddish-brown liquid, of a sour, 
very astringent, and somewhat acrid taste. Its chief use 
is in making the sesquioxide of iron, and it should be kept 
on hand, for the preparation of the hydrated sesquioxide 
of iron, as an antidote for arsenious acid. It may be used 
as a styptic, but for this purpose it is inferior to the next 
preparation. 

Liquor Ferri Subsulphatis (Solution of Subsulphate of 
Iron). This solution, known as MonseVs Solution, is made in 
the same way as the last preparation, except that only half 
the amount of sulphuric acid is used ; the sesquioxide of iron 
is therefore only partially saturated, and a subsalt results, 
(2Fe 2 3 5S0 3 ). It has a syrupy consistence, a ruby-red color, 
is inodorous, and has a very astringent but not acrid taste. 
It is a less irritant salt than the tersulphate, and may be used 
internally, in hemorrhage from the stomach and bowels, in the 
dose of from five to fifteen grains. Externally, it is one of the 
most efficacious styptics we can employ, and has been injected 
into varicose veins with success for the cure of varicose ulcers. 
Diluted with water, it is a good local application to inflamed 
mucous surfaces. 

Ferri Chloridum (Chloride of Iron). This salt, which is 
the sesquichloride (Fe 2 Cl 3 ), is made by heating iron wire with 
muriatic acid, (by which the protochloride is formed), and 



128 MATERIA MEDICA. 

afterwards converting the prc-tc-chloride into the sesquichloride 
by heating it with muriatic and nitric acids. It occurs in frag- 
ments of a crystalline structure, an orange-yellow color, in- 
odorous, of a strong chalybeate, styptic taste, deliquescent, and 
soluble in water, alcohol, and ether. Internally, it is used 
chiefly in the form of the tincture. Externally, it is applied as 
a styptic, and in solution, of various strengths, as an astrin- 
gent. One part, gradually added to six parts of collodion, 
forms a yellowish-red, limpid liquid, of valuable styptic proper- 
ties. 

Tinctura Ferri Chloridi [Tincture of the Chloride of Iron). 
This is prepared by dissolving iron wire (three troyounces) in 
muriatic acid (eleven troyounces), then in muriatic acid (six troy- 
ounces and a half) and nitric acid (a troyounce and a half), and 
afterwards adding distilled water enough to make the liquid mea- 
sure a pint, and finally mixing with alcohol three pints. It is a 
tincture of the sesquichloride, though there is probably some 
reaction betwen the acid and alcohol, as the preparation has an 
ethereal odor. It is of a reddish-brown color, and has a sour, 
styptic taste. It is one of the most effective of the chalybeates, 
acting locally as an energetic astringent and styptic, and, in 
large doses, as an irritant. Its indications, both general and 
topical, are very analogous to those of the sulphate, with the 
addition of some specific action on the urino-genital apparatus, 
which renders it applicable to the treatment of affections of 
these organs. Dose, Tt|x to Tr[xxx, gradually increased to f5j 
or foij, and taken in some mild diluent. 

Ferri Iodidum (Iodide of Iron). This- salt is the protio- 
dide of iron (Fel), and is made by the addition of iron filings 
to a mixture of iodine in distilled water. By evaporation, 
with as little contact of air as possible, green tabular crystals 
are obtained, of a styptic taste, volatile, deliquescent, and very 
soluble in both water and alcohol. But, by exposure to the 
air, the protiodide of iron undergoes decomposition : a portion 
of the iron parting with its iodine, and becoming oxidized. 
Hence, the salt is hardly fit for medicinal use, unless protected 
from decomposition, as in the officinal 



PREPARATIONS OF IRON. 129 

Syrupus Ferri Iodidi [Syrup of Iodide of Iron), which is 
prepared with the addition of sugar. This is an excellent 
alterative tonic, combining the effects of iodine and of iron, and 
is particularly applicable to the treatment of scrofula, visceral 
engorgements, phthisis, &c. Dose, twenty to forty drops, three 
times a day. 

Pilulce Ferri Iodidi (Pills of Iodide of Iron), are made w T ith 
iodide of iron, reduced iron, sugar, gum arabic, marsh-mallow, 
and balsam of Tolu. They keep very well. Each pill con- 
tains about one grain of iodide of iron, and one-fifth of a grain 
of reduced iron. 

Ferri et Potassa Tartras ( Tartrate of Iron and Potassa) 
(Fe 2 O 3 ,KO,C 8 H 4 O 10 4-HO), is prepared by the addition of hydra- 
ted oxide of iron to a mixture of bitartrate of potassa in distilled 
water. It occurs in transparent scales of a ruby-red color, which 
are wholly soluble in water. The tartaric acid and potash, in com- 
bination in this preparation, render it less constipating than 
the other chalybeates ; and, from its agreeable taste, it is 
adapted to the diseases of childhood. Dose, gr. x to 5ss, 

Ferri Phosphas (Phosphate of Iron), is obtained by the 
double reaction of solutions of sulphate of iron and phosphate 
of soda, and is a phosphate of the protoxide (8FeO,P0 5 ). It 
is a white powder, insoluble in water, but soluble in diluted 
acids ; by exposure to the air it absorbs oxygen, with the 
production of sesquioxide of iron, and acquires a blue color. 
Dose, gr. v. to gr. x. 

Ferri Pyrophosphas (Pyrophosphate of Iron), is a mixture 
of pyrophosphate of the sesquioxide of iron (2Fe 2 3 ,3P0 5 ), and 
of citrate of ammonia. It occurs in apple-green scales, of an 
acid taste, and is very soluble in water. A good chalybeate. 
Dose, grs. ij-v. Given also as a syrup. 

Ferri Citras (Citrate of Iron), is prepared by the addi- 
tion of hydrated oxide of iron to a solution of citric acid. It 
is a citrate of the sesquioxide (Fe 2 3 ,C 12 H 5 O n ), and occurs in 
thin, transparent pieces, of a garnet-red color, with a mild, 
acid, chalybeate taste, slowly soluble in cold water, but readily 
soluble in boiling water. Dose, gr. v to gr. x. It is officinal 

9 



130 MATERIA MEDICA. 

also in the form of solution of citrate of iron (liquor ferri 
citratis), a deep reddish-brown liquid, given in doses of ten to 
twenty drops ; and it is by evaporating this solution that the 
solid citrate is obtained. The addition of a few drops of liquor 
auimonise converts this salt into an ammonio-citrate, which is 
more soluble, and possesses antacid properties. Dose, the 
same. 

Liquor Ferri Nitratis (Solution of Nitrate of Iron), is 
prepared by the gradual addition of diluted nitric acid to an 
excess of iron. It is a ternitrate of the sesquioxide of 
iron (Fe 2 3 ,3N0 5 ), and is a pale, amber-colored liquid, with 
a strong, astringent, acid taste. It is tonic and astringent, 
agreeing very well with the stomach, and is employed in the 
treatment of chronic diarrhoea, hsematemesis, hemorrhage from 
the bowels, and uterine hemorrhage, particularly when anaemic 
symptoms are present. Dose, gtt. x to gtt. xx, two or three 
times a day, in dilution. 

Ferroi Ammoxiatum (Ammoniated Iron), is prepared by 
evaporating a solution of sesquichloride of iron and muriate of 
ammonia. It is a mechanical mixture of these salts, and is of 
an orange-red color, wholly soluble in water and dilated alco- 
hol. It contains a small and variable quantity of iron ; but is 
considered a valuable deobstruent in glandular swellings, and in 
large doses is aperient. It is not now officinal. Dose, gr. iv 
to gr. xij, or more. 

Ferri Ferrocyanidttm (Ferrocyanide of Iron) (Fe 4 Cfy 3 ), or 
Pure Prussian Blue, is obtained by the action of ferrocyanide of 
potassium on tersulphate of sesquioxide of iron. It is of a rich 
dark-blue color, without smell or taste, and is insoluble in 
water and alcohol. Its effects on the economy in health are 
not very striking ; but it has been used both as an antiperiodic 
tonic and in the treatment of neuralgia, chorea, &c. Dose, gr. 
v. three or four times a day. 

Ferri Lactas (Lactate of Iron), is made by mixing diluted 
lactic acid with iron filings. It is a lactate of the protoxide 
(FeO,C 6 H 5 5 +3HO), and occurs in greenish-white crystalline 
crusts or grains, of a mild, sweetish, ferruginous taste, spa- 



PREPARATIONS OF COPPER. 131 

ringly soluble in water, and insoluble in alcohol. Used in chlo- 
rosis, and has a marked effect in increasing the appetite. Dose, 
gr. x-xx, in pill, lozenge, or syrup. 

Ferri et Quinine Citras {Citrate of Iron and Quinia). 
This salt is prepared by precipitating quinia from the sulphate 
by ammonia, and afterwards dissolving it in a hot solution of 
citrate of iron. As found in the shops, it is probably a mixture 
of citrate of sesqui oxide of iron, with a variable proportion of 
citrate of iron and quinia. It occurs in thin, transparent 
scales, of a reddish or yellowish-brown color, with a tint of 
green, not very soluble in water. It combines the virtues of 
its two bases ; five or six grains contain about a grain of 
quinia. 

Ferri et Ammonia Sulphas [Sulphate of Iron and Am- 
monia), (Fe 2 3 ,3S0 3 +NH 4 0,S0 3 -f-24HO). This salt, called 
also ammonio ferric alum, is made by adding sulphate of am- 
monia to the hot solution of tersulphate of iron. It occurs in 
octohedral crystals, of a pale violet color and sour astringent 
taste, efflorescent, and soluble in water. Used in diarrhoea 
and chronic dysentery. Dose, gr. v-xv, two or three times a 



Ferri et Ammonite Tartras {Tartrate of Iron and Am- 
monia) (Fe 2 O 3 ,NH 4 O-f-C 8 H 4 O 10 ), occurs in transparent, garnet- 
red scales, of a sweetish taste, soluble in water, insoluble in 
alcohol and ether. A mild chalybeate. Dose, gr. x— xxx. 

Various other combinations of iron have been from time to 
time introduced into the practice of medicine ; but they are 
needlessly multiplied. The arseniate, acetate, bromide, oxalate, 
tannate, and valerianate, are recommended by different thera- 
peutists. 

CUPRI PR^PARATA PREPARATIONS OE COPPER. 

Metallic copper is inert. The salts of copper act locally as 
caustics, irritants, and astringents. When exhibited in small 
doses, they exert a corroborant influence over the cerebro- 
spinal system, and are employed to fulfil the indications to 



132 MATERIA MEDICA. 

which tonics are applicable, as in the cure of ague, neuralgia, 
epilepsy, &c. In larger doses, they act as emetics ; and, in 
excessive doses, they produce gastro-intestinal inflammation, 
and disorder of the nervous system. They are employed thera- 
peutically, both as external and internal remedies ; externally, 
as stimulants, astringents, styptics, and caustics ; internally, as 
tonics, astringents, and emetics. In cases of poisoning from 
the cupreous compounds, the best antidote is albumen, as white 
of eggs, milk, wheaten flour. The ferrocyanide of potassium is 
also very efficacious, forming with the cupreous compound an 
insoluble ferrocyanide of copper. 

Cupri Sulphas [Sulphate of Copper). This salt, known 
as blue vitriol, is obtained by roasting the native sulphuret, or 
by combining the oxide of copper and sulphuric acid. It is 
a sulphate of the protoxide (CuO,S0 3 -f 5HO). It occurs in 
fine, prismatic, blue crystals, which, by exposure to the air, 
effloresce slightly, and become covered with a greenish-white 
powder. It has a styptic, metallic taste, is entirely soluble in 
water, but insoluble in alcohol. It is employed as a tonic and 
nervine. It is an excellent remedy in obstinate intermittent 
fever, in doses of gr. \ to gr. j, or more, in pill, repeated so as 
not to occasion vomiting. As an astringent, it may be given 
in the same doses, and will be found extremely valuable in 
the treatment of chronic diarrhoea and dysentery, and chronic 
catarrh with profuse secretion. As an emetic, the dose is gr. 
iij to gr. v. Externally, it is used as an escharotic to 
fungous granulations, and in solution to arrest hemorrhages, 
mucous discharges, &c. 

Cuprum Ammoniatum (Ammoniated Copper) is made by 
rubbing together sulphate of copper and carbonate of ammo- 
nia. It is probably a double compound of cuprate of 
ammonia and sulphate of ammonia (NH 3 ,S0 3 +NH 3 ,CuO), and 
has a deep azure-blue color, a styptic, metallic taste, and an 
ammoniacal odor. Its action is very similar to that of 
sulphate of copper ; but it is used principally as an antispas- 
modic tonic in nervous disorders, — epilepsy, chorea, hysteria, 
spasmodic asthma, &c. Dose, gr. }, gradually increased. 



PREPARATIONS OF ZINC. 133 

Cupri Subacetas (Subacetate of Copper), or Verdigris, 
(2CuO,C 4 H 3 3 ), occurs in pale bluish-green or blue masses or 
powder. The dose is gr. J- to gr. J ; but it is a powerful 
poison in an overdose, and hence is rarely given as a tonic. 
The powder is used as an escharotic, and an ointment is 
used. 



ZINCI PRiEPARATA PREPARATIONS OF ZINC. 

Zinc in its metallic state is inert. Its compounds are very 
analogous in their effects on the system to those of copper, but 
are less energetic. They are employed topically as caustics, 
astringents, and desiccants ; and internally as tonics and 
antispasmodics, and in large doses, as emetics. In cases of 
poisoning (which are, however, very uncommon), demulcents 
and opiates are to be administered. 

Zinci Sulphas {Sulphate of Zinc), or White Vitriol, is pre- 
pared by dissolving zinc in diluted sulphuric acid. It occurs 
in small, colorless, transparent, prismatic crystals, resembling 
those of sulphate of magnesia (ZnO,S0 3 +7HO). They have 
a metallic, astringent taste, are soluble in water, and insoluble 
in alcohol. Dose, as a tonic, antispasmodic, and astringent, 
gr. j to gr. v ; as an emetic, it is the promptest and safest that 
can be given in cases of narcotic poisoning, in the dose of gr. x 
to gr. xx. Externally it is much used as a caustic, and in 
solution as an application to inflamed mucous membranes, in 
the strength of gr. j or ij to f 5ss of water. 

Zinci Oxidum [Oxide of Zinc) is made by exposing carbon- 
ate of zinc to heat. It is a white powder (ZnO), insoluble in 
water, but soluble in diluted sulphuric and chlorohydric acids. 
It has been given as an antispasmodic tonic, in doses of 
gr. ij to iij, gradually increased to gr. vii or x, and is 
highly esteemed in the treatment of epilepsy ; but it is chiefly 
used externally as a dusting powder, or in the form of ointment 
(eighty grains to lard a troy ounce). 

Zinci Acetas (Acetate of Zinc) is made by adding zinc to a 



134 MATERIA MEDICA. 

solution of acetate of lead, and occurs in white micaceous 
crystals (ZnO,C 4 H 3 3 +7HO), very soluble in water. It may 
be given internally as a tonic antispasmodic, in the dose of 
gr. j or ij, gradually increased ; but it is chiefly used as a 
topical astringent in ophthalmia, gonorrhoea, leucorrhcea, &c, 
in the proportion of gr. ij to gr. vj, or more, to an ounce of 
water. 

Zinci Carbonas Pr^cipitata [Precipitated Carbonate of 
Zinc), is obtained by the double reaction of solutions of sul- 
phate of zinc and carbonate of soda. It is a soft, white powder 
(8ZnO,3C0 2 -f 6HO), similar in its action to the oxide, but is 
chiefly used as a dusting powder, and to make a mild astrin- 
gent and desiccant cerate (a troyounce to ointment of lard five 
troyounces). 

Calamina Pr^eparata (Prepared Calamine), obtained by 
heat from calamine, the native impure carbonate of zinc, is a 
pinkish powder used as a desiccant, and in the form of a cerate, 
called Turner's cerate. Calamine is so frequently adulterated 
that it is now dismissed from the Pharmacopoeia, though still 
much used. 

Zinci Chloridum [Chloride of Zinc) (ZnCl), is made by dis- 
solving zinc in muriatic acid, — nitric acid and chalk being 
added to remove any iron which may have been present with 
the zinc. It is a whitish-gray, semitransparent, deliquescent 
mass, having the softness of wax, and is soluble in water, 
alcohol, and ether. It has been employed internally in doses 
of gr. j or ij, as an antispasmodic tonic in chorea, epilepsy, and 
neuralgia. Its local action is that of a powerful caustic, and 
it is one of the best escharotics that can be exhibited, to pro- 
duce healthy granulations in malignant or indolent ulcers, 
especially in lupus. It may be used as a lotion in the strength 
of gr. ij to fgj of water, or dissolved in a little alcohol, or in the 
form of paste, made with one part of the salt to two or four of 
flour. A solution of the chloride of zinc is employed as an 
antiseptic, and is also injected into the bloodvessels of anato- 
mical subjects to preserve them for dissection. 

Zinci Iodidum [Iodide of Zinc) (Znl), is made by digesting 



PREPARATIONS OF SILVER. 135 

an excess of zinc with iodine diffused in water. It occurs in 
the form of a white deliquescent mass, or of fine needles, of a 
metallic styptic taste, very soluble in water. It has been used 
internally, as a tonic, antispasmodic, and astringent, in doses of 
gr. i-ij, best exhibited in the form of syrup. Externally, it is 
a most valuable local stimulant and escharotic, equal if not 
superior in effect to the chloride. 

Zinci Valerianas (Valerianate of Zinc) (ZnO,C 10 H 9 O 2 ), is 
prepared by the double reaction of valerianate of soda and 
sulphate of zinc. It occurs in white, pearly scales, having a 
faint odor of valerianic acid, and a metallic styptic taste. 
Very slightly soluble in water, more so in alcohol. Used in 
epilepsy and nervous affections, in the dose of one or two 
grains, repeated several times a day. 



ARGENTI PR^PARATA — PREPARATIONS OF SILVER. 

In the metallic state, silver is wholly inert. The only prepa- 
ration which is extensively employed is — 

Argenti Nitras (Nitrate of Silver). This salt (AgO,N0 5 ) 
is obtained by dissolving silver in diluted nitric acid. It 
occurs in transparent, colorless, prismatic crystals, which have 
a strongly metallic and bitter taste, and are wholly soluble in 
distilled water, and become blackened .by the action of light 
and organic matters. Its solution yields with chloride of 
sodium a white precipitate, entirely soluble in ammonia. 

Physiological Effects. — The topical action of nitrate of silver 
is that of a caustic or corrosive ; and this effect is produced by 
its combining with the albumen and fibrin of the tissues. 
When applied to mucous membranes, it forms a compound with 
the animal matter of the mucus, which protects the tissues 
from 7 the action of the caustic. Hence, large doses may 
be taken with considerable impunity by the stomach. But, 
in excessive quantity, it may occasion gastro-enteric irrita- 
tion, with disturbance of the nervous system ; and, in these 
cases, the antidote is common salt (chloride of sodium), which 



136 MATERIA MEDICA. 

produces, when in contact with the nitrate, nitrate of soda and 
chloride of silver. In medicinal doses nitrate of silver has a 
specific corroborant and antispasmodic action on the nervous 
system ; and, after prolonged use, produces a peculiar indelible 
Mueness or slate-color of the skin. 

Medicinal Uses. — Internally, nitrate of silver has been chiefly 
employed as an antispasmodic tonic in the treatment of epi- 
lepsy, and it is among the most reliable remedies that can be 
administered in this intractable affection ; but its effect in dis- 
coloring the skin is an objection to its protracted use. It is 
also used in chorea and gastrodynia, and as an astringent in 
dysentery. But it is as an external agent that it is chiefly 
resorted to. It is the most efficacious application that can be 
made to inflamed mucous membranes, and either in the solid 
form or in solution, it is employed in every variety of inflam- 
mation of this tissue. It is also extensively used to produce 
healthy granulations in wounds and ulcers, to arrest the pro- 
gress of erysipelatous inflammation and variolous pustules, in 
porrigo and other skin diseases, in strictures, and to destroy 
the virus of chancres and of poisoned wounds. 

Administration. — The dose of nitrate of silver internally is 
gr. J, gradually increased to gr. iij or iv, three times a day, in 
pill made with some mild vegetable powder. For external use, 
solutions are made of various strengths, from gr. ij to 5ss, 
in an ounce of distilled water. An ointment is also em- 
ployed. 

Argenti Nitras Fusa {Fused Nitrate of Silver, Lunar 
Caustic). For external use, in the solid form, nitrate of silver 
is melted and poured into small moulds. 

Argenti Oxidum {Oxide of Silver) (AgO), is obtained by 
adding solution of potassa to a solution of nitrate of silver. 
It is a tasteless, olive-brown powder, very slightly soluble in 
water. Its uses are analogous to those of the nitrate, and it 
is employed in epilepsy, gastrodynia, chronic diarrhoea, uterine 
disease, &c. It is considered to be free from liability to dis- 
color the skin. Dose, gr. ss to gr. ij, twice or thrice daily, in 
. powder or pill. 



SULPHATE OF CADMIUM. 137 

BISMUTHI SUBNITRAS SUBNITRATE OF BISMUTH. 

This salt is prepared by first forming the ternitrate of bis- 
muth by dissolving bismuth in diluted nitric acid ; as metallic 
bismuth generally contains arsenic, the nitrate thus formed is 
converted into the carbonate, by the addition of solution of car- 
bonate of soda, whereby most of the arsenic is removed as 
soluble arseniate of soda ; the carbonate of bismuth is next 
dissolved in nitric acid, and the nitrate of bismuth is again 
formed ; • a little water is added to the mixed solution of nitrate 
and arseniate of bismuth, by which the subarseniate is depos- 
ited and separated ; the addition of a large amount of water 
causes a deposition of subnitrate of bismuth ; the supernitrate 
remaining in solution is lastly decomposed by ammonia, which 
takes most of the nitric acid, and precipitates the bismuth 
combined with the remainder in the form of subnitrate. Sub- 
nitrate of bismuth (Bi0 3 ,N0 5 ) is a white, inodorous, tasteless 
powder, nearly insoluble in water. Its medicinal properties are 
tonic, antispasmodic, and astringent, and it has been employed 
in intermittent fever ; but it is now chiefly used to allay sick- 
ness and vomiting in chronic nervous affections of the stomach, 
and also as an astringent in subacute and chronic diarrhoea. 
Dose, gr. v to 3j, or even 5ss, in powder or pill. Externally, 
it is a good remedy in skin diseases in the form of ointment. 
The subcarbonate of bismuth — bismuthi subcarbonas (Bi0 3 C0 2 ) — 
is recommended as a substitute for the subnitrate. It is thought 
to be more readily tolerated by the stomach, and is more soluble 
in the gastric juice, but it is less astringent. 



CAD Mil SULPHAS — SULPHATE OF CADMIUM. 

This salt is obtained by the reaction of sulphuric acid upon 
carbonate of cadmium. It occurs in transparent, colorless, 
prismatic crystals (CdO,S0 3 ), of an astringent, austere taste, 
and very soluble in water. In its effects on the system, it 
closely resembles sulphate of zinc, but it has been chiefly 



138 MATERIA MEDICA. 

used in this country, as a collyrium (gr. j-ij to water fgj), and 
has been found very efficacious in specks and opacities of the 
cornea. 



CERII OXALAS — OXALATE OF CERIUM. 

This salt (2CeO,C 4 6 -f-6HO), is usually made by add- 
ing a solution of oxalate of ammonia to any soluble salt of 
cerium, and is also obtained from the mineral cerite. It occurs 
as a snow-white, granular powder, inodorous and tasteless, in- 
soluble in water, alcohol, and ether, but dissolved by sulphuric 
acid. It is believed to resemble the salts of silver, bismuth, 
and zinc in its effects, and has lately been deservedly extolled in 
obstinate forms of vomiting, especially the vomiting of preg- 
nancy. In chorea, and other neuroses, it is also highly recom- 
mended. Dose, a grain three times a day, or often er, in pill or 
suspended in water. The nitrate of cerium has also been em- 
ployed, and is more soluble. Dose, somewhat less. 



ACIDA MINERALIA — MINERAL ACIDS. 

The diluted mineral acids are usually classed with tonics ; 
but, although they exert a very considerable corroborant 
influence on the system, their action is in many respects 
peculiar and distinctive. In the concentrated form, they 
are corrosive. When properly diluted with water and swal- 
lowed in medicinal doses, they allay thirst, increase the 
appetite, and stimulate digestion. After absorption into the 
blood, they often produce a restorative effect in morbid con- 
ditions of the circulating fluid, and in their passage out by the 
secretions, act as astringents. They are employed — as tonics, 
usually in combination with the vegetable bitters, in dyspepsia, 
especially when it is dependent on a deficiency of the gastric 
fluid ; as antalkalines, to correct the morbid alkalinity of the 
blood in typhoid and other essential fevers, and in purpura and 
analogous blood diseases; as astringents and styptics in he- 



MINERAL ACIDS. 139 

morrhage from- the stomach and bowels, and in colliquative dis- 
charges ; to allay febrile heat and cutaneous irritation ; in 
phosphatic lithiasis ; and locally, as escharotics ; and, in very 
dilute solution, they are injected into the bladder as lithontrip- 
tics. In cases of poisoning from the mineral acids, the alkaline 
earths and fixed oils are the proper antidotes. 

Acidum Sulphuricum (Sulphuric Acid), formerly called 
Oil of Vitriol, is obtained by burning sulphur, mixed with 
nitre, over a stratum of water contained in a chamber lined 
with sheet-lead. It is a dense, colorless, inodorous, corrosive 
liquid, which unites with water in all proportions, with the evo- 
lution of heat. It consists of one equivalent of sulphur and three 
equivalents of oxygen (S0 3 ), and, when of the sp. gr. 1.845, con- 
tains one equivalent of water. It should have, as directed by the 
Pharmacopoeia, the sp. gr. 1.843, when it contains 79 per cent, of 
anhydrous acid. In this concentrated form, it is not employed 
internally, but is sometimes used externally as a caustic. 
When swallowed, it acts as a violent corrosive poison, usually 
staining the lips, mouth, and fauces with white or black sloughs. 
The proper antidote is magnesia, or solution of soap, and muci- 
laginous drinks should be afterwards freely administered. 

Acidum Sulphuricum Dilutum (Diluted Sulphuric Acid), 
contains two troyounces of sulphuric acid in a pint of diluted 
acid. It is given as a tonic, refrigerant, and astringent, in the 
dose of from ten to thirty drops, three times a day, in water, 
and should be sucked through a tube to prevent injury to the 
teeth. This acid is a particularly valuable remedy in typhus 
and typhoid fevers, colliquative perspirations, and choleraic 
diarrhoea ; and it is the best corrective for phosphatic lithiasis. 
It is used externally as a gargle, and wash to ulcers. 

Acidum Sulphuricum Aromaticum (Aromatic Sulphuric 
Acid), or Elixir of Vitriol, is made by digesting six troyounces 
of sulphuric acid in a pint of alcohol, then percolating a troy- 
ounce of ginger and a troyounce and a half of cinnamon with 
alcohol till a pint of tincture is obtained, and mixing the tinc- 
ture with the diluted acid. It is a reddish-brown liquid, with 
an aromatic odor and a pleasant acid taste ; and is an agree- 



140 MATERIA MEDICA. 

able substitute for the diluted sulphuric acid, administered in 
the same doses. 

Acidum Sulphurosum [Sulphurous Acid), is made by heat- 
ing sulphuric acid with charcoal and distilled water. The 
sulphuric acid (S0 3 ) is deprived of an equivalent of oxygen 
by the charcoal, and becomes sulphurous acid (S0 2 ). It is a 
colorless liquid, having the smell of burning sulphur, and a 
sulphurous somewhat astringent taste. It has been only of 
late years employed in medicine, and is believed to have a 
special influence in destroying parasitic life. Internally, it is 
very efficacious in sarcina ventriculi, or yeast vomiting ; dose, 
f5j, largely diluted with water. Externally, it is used in skin 
diseases (particularly those of a parasitic nature, either aninial- 
cular or cryptogamous) — diluted with two or three measures of 
water or glycerin. The sulphite of soda — sodce sulphis (NaO, 
S0 2 +8HO) — is used as a substitute for sulphurous acid, which 
is developed from the salt by any of the organic acids ; dose, 
5j, three times a day; a solution (5i-f5i of water) is a good 
local application in erysipelas. The hyposulphite of soda 
(NaO,S 2 2 +7HO), is used for the same purposes; dose, gr. 
x-xx, three times a day, and for external use, 5j, dissolved in 
water fgj. Both the sulphite and hyposulphite of soda have 
been found very efficacious in intermittent and remittent fevers. 
The sulphite is perhaps the more efficacious salt. The sulphite 
of magnesia is also employed in zymotic diseases, and is less 
unpalatable than the soda salt, and besides contains a larger pro- 
portional quantity of acid. Both the sulphites of soda and mag- 
nesia are employed in the treatment of purulent infection. Sul- 
phites of lime, potash, and ammonia have been also recommended. 

Acidum Nitricum {Nitric Acid) (N0 5 ), is obtained by the 
action of sulphuric acid upon nitrate of potassa. When pure, 
it is colorless ; but, as found in the shops, it is usually of a 
straw color, owing to the presence of hyponitric acid. It 
should have a sp. gr. 1.42 (when it contains 60 per cent, of 
anhydrous acid), and is a corrosive, sour liquid, employed, in the 
concentrated form, as an escharotic to destroy warts and stimu- 
late indolent sinuses, and diluted, as an astringent wash or 



MINERAL ACIDS. 141 

gargle. Cases of poisoning from this acid are to be treated 
-with magnesia or soap, and mucilaginous drinks. In poisoning 
from nitric acid, the fauces and mouth are covered with yellow 
eschars. Internally, it is used in the form of 

Acidum Nitricum Dilutum {Diluted Nitric Acid), which 
contains three tro jounces of acid in a pint of diluted acid. 
This is given as a substitute for sulphuric acid, but is more apt 
to disagree with the stomach ; it is also employed as an altera- 
tive in syphilis, and has been found useful in whooping-cough. 
Combined with laudanum and camphor-water, it is much used 
in the treatment of dysentery, under the name of Hopes Cam- 
phor Mixture (camphor water f Sviij, nitric acid f 5i, laudanum 
25 drops ; dose f §ss, repeated). Dose, for internal use, 20 to 
40 drops, three times a day, reduced with water. 

Acidum Muriaticum {Muriatic Acid), is an aqueous solu- 
tion of chlorohydric acid gas (HC1), and is obtained by the 
action of sulphuric acid on solution of chloride of sodium or 
common salt. It is, when pure, a transparent, colorless liquid, 
but has often a yellow color, owing to the presence of iron or 
other contaminations. It has a corrosive taste, and a suffoca- 
ting odor, and is an active poison, though less irritating than 
sulphuric and nitric acids. Magnesia or soap is the proper 
antidote. It is used, externally, as a caustic/ and as an appli- 
cation in diphtheria, ulcerative and gangrenous stomatitis, &c. ; 
internally, in the form of 

Acidum Muriaticum Dilutum {Diluted Muriatic Acid), 
which contains four troyounces of acid in a pint of diluted acid. 
This is employed in typhoid and typhus fevers, malignant scar- 
latina, &c. ; also to counteract phosphatic deposits in the urine, 
to prevent the generation of worms, in syphilis, in dysentery, 
and in some forms of dyspepsia. Dose, twenty to sixty drops, 
which may be given in infusion of roses. 

Acidum Nitro-Muriaticum {Nitro-Muriatic Acid), This 
acid is made by mixing three parts of nitric acid with five parts 
of muriatic acid, and consists of two compounds of chlorine and 
nitric oxide (N0 2 C1 2 and N0 2 C1), mixed with free chlorine. 
It has a golden-yellow color, and emits the smell of chlorine. 



142 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Internally, it is employed in the same cases as nitric acid, and 
is thought to be particularly efficacious in oxaluria, and in 
diseases of the liver and syphilis. It should not be given with 
mercurials. Externally, it is used as a bath, either local or 
general, in oxaluria, syphilis, and chronic hepatitis, for which 
purpose one or two ounces of acid may be added to a gallon of 
water. Dose, from two to five drops, properly diluted and 
carefully increased. Diluted Nitro- Muriatic Acid contains 
five troyounces of acid in a pint of diluted acid ; dose, ten to 
twenty drops. 

ORDER V.— ASTRINGENTS. 

These are medicines which produce contraction and corruga- 
tion of the tissues. Their constitutional effects are somewhat 
analogous to those of tonics ; as, like them, they increase the 
tone and vigor of the body, and exercise a control over various 
disorders of the nervous system. But they are chiefly employed 
to cure relaxation of the fibres and tissues, to subdue inflam- 
mation of superficial parts, and to arrest hemorrhage and ex- 
cessive discharges from mucous membranes or other secreting 
surfaces. In checking morbid discharges from the bowels, 
astringents, while they diminish the secretions from the intes- 
tinal canal, do not, like opium, restrain the peristaltic move- 
ments ; hence the necessity of combining them with opiates. 
They are divided into Vegetable and Mineral astringents. 
Most of the former owe their astringency to the presence of a 
principle termed tannic acid, and differ from tonics in the 
absence of bitterness. The mineral preparations usually classed 
among astringents, are those of alum and lead, and are distin- 
guished from the mineral astringent-tonics, by their more 
decided astringency and a sedative action on the vascular 
system. 



GALLIC ACID. 143 

VEGETABLE ASTRINGENTS. 
ACIDUM TANNICUM — TANNIC ACID. 

This acid, which is the active principle of the vegetable astrin- 
gents, is usually extracted from powdered galls by the action of 
ether. It is of a yellowish-white color, and a strongly astrin- 
gent taste, is very soluble in water, and soluble, though less 
so, in alcohol and ether. It produces a white flocculent preci- 
pitate with solution of gelatine, a bluish-black precipitate with 
the salts of the sesquioxide of iron, and white precipitates 
with solutions of the vegetable alkalies ; and these substances 
are to be, therefore, considered incompatible with all the vege- 
table astringents. There is a variety of tannic acid, obtained 
from catechu and some other substances, which strikes a 
greenish-black precipitate with the salts of iron, and is not 
convertible into gallic acid. Tannic acid is C M H 19 31 -f 3HO. 

Effects and Uses. — Tannic acid is a powerful astringent, and 
is applicable to all the cases in which astringents are useful. 
It is greatly resorted to, internally, in the treatment of 
diarrhoea, dysentery, cholera, hemorrhage, colliquative sweats, 
&c. ; also as an enema in diarrhoea, dysentery, prolapsus ani, 
and fissure of the rectum; and as a topical application, in 
inflammations and morbid discharges from mucous membranes, 
ulcers, &c. It is, perhaps, the best form in which the vegetable 
astringents can be employed, owing to the certainty and 
minuteness of the dose in which it can be given. Dose, gr. j 
to gr. iij, or iv, in pill, occasionally repeated. 

ACIDUM GALLICUM — GALLIC ACID. 

This principle is found in many of the vegetable astringents, 
but less uniformly than tannic acid, and is probably the result 
of changes which the latter has undergone. It is prepared by 
exposing a solution of galls to the air, when the tannic acid 
gradually absorbs oxygen and is converted into gallic acid. 



144 MATERIA MEDICA. 

It occurs in small, silky, nearly colorless crystals, having a 
slight acid and astringent taste, and is soluble in boiling water, 
and slightly so in cold water. It is C 7 H 3 5 . 

Effects and Uses. — Gallic acid is a valuable astringent, 
which has of late been extensively employed in hemorrhagic 
disorders, as uterine hemorrhage, hemoptysis, hematuria, 
bloody diarrhoea, &c. Both tannic and gallic acids have been 
found useful in albuminuria. Gallic acid has but feeble local 
astringent powers, and is probably converted into tannic acid 
in the blood ; though in hemorrhages, it is said to be more 
efficacious than the latter acid. It may be given in doses of 
gr. ij to gr. v, in pill, every two or three hours. 



GALL A — NUTGALL. 

Galls are morbid excrescences found upon Quercus infecto- 
ria, or the Gall Oak {Nat. Ord. Corylacese), a small tree or 
shrub of Asia Minor. The Gall-nuts are produced by the 
puncture of the buds by a fly (Cynips quercusfolii), to form a 
nidus for its eggs. This occasions an irritation and flow of 
juices to the part, resulting in the formation of a tumor round 
the larva, which, on attaining maturity, perforates the gall and 
escapes. Galls are produced chiefly in Syria and Asia Minor, 
and are imported from the Levant. They are brought also 
from Calcutta, being collected to some extent in India. Galls 
are spherical, about the size of a hickory-nut, but of varying 
dimensions, with small tubercles on their surface. The best are 
bluish or black externally, and grayish within, without odor, 
and of a very astringent, bitter taste. They yield their pro- 
perties to both water ancl alcohol, bui best to the former, and 
contain both tannic and gallic acids. White galls are collected 
after they have been perforated by the insect, and are inferior 
in astringency. 

Effects and Uses.— Galls are powerfully astringent^ but are 
not much used internally. In the form of infusion or decoc- 
tion, they are employed as enemata in diarrhoea and dysentery, 



CATECHU. 145 

and also as gargles. Dose of the poivder, gr. x to gr. xx. 
The tincture (four troyounces to diluted alcohol Oij) may be 
given in the dose of foj to foiij, but it is chiefly used a chemi- 
cal test. The ointment (one part to seven parts of lard) is a 
favorite application in hemorrhoids. 



CATECHU. 

Catechu, formerly called Terra Japonica, is an extract of 
the wood of Acacia Catechu, a small prickly tree of India 
{Nat. Orel. Fabacese). Twelve or fifteen varieties of the drug 
are described by pharmacologists ; but it is usually met with 
in the shops, in masses of various shapes and sizes, of a rusty- 
brown color externally, and varying internally from a reddish 
or yellowish-brown to a dark-brown color. The best is of a 
dark color, and is easily broken into small angular fragments, 
with a smooth glossy surface, bearing some resemblance to 
kino. It is without smell, and has an astringent, bitter taste. 
It contains about 50 per cent, of tannic acid (of the variety 
which strikes a greenish-Mack precipitate with the salts of 
iron), and about 30 per cent, of a peculiar extractive, 
called catechuic acid, to both of which it owes its peculiar 
properties. 

Effects and Uses. — This is one of the most powerful and 
valuable of the vegetable astringents, possessing also mild tonic 
properties. It is much employed in diarrhoea, dysentery, 
hemorrhages, and in all cases of immoderate discharge, unat- 
tended with inflammatory action. It is a good deal used in 
relaxed conditions of the mouth and throat, also in aphthous 
ulcerations of the mouth, and spongy affections of the gums. 
Topically, it is employed as a styptic, and in solution as an 
injection in gonorrhoea and gleet, &c. Dose of the powder, 
gr. x to 5ss, in bolus or emulsion. 

Lntusum Catechu Compositum (Compound Infusion of 
Catechu), is made by adding boiling water (Oj) to powdered 
catechu (half a troyounce), and cinnamon (5j) — dose, f§j to 

10 



146 MATERIA MEDICA. 

fgij, three or four times a day. Of the tincture (three troy- 
ounces to diluted alcohol Oij, with cinnamon two troy ounces), 
the dose is f5j to f5iij. 



KINO. 



The term Kino is applied to the products of several trees. 
Five varieties are known. 1. East India kino, which is the 
most common, and is the inspissated juice of Pterocarpus 
marsupium (Nat. Ord. Fabacese), a lofty tree of Malabar. 2. 
African kino, the original variety introduced into Europe, but 
not now met with ; obtained from Pterocarpus erinaceus (Nat. 
Ord. Fabacese). 3. Jamaica kino, the extract of the wood and 
bark of Coccoloba uvifera, or Seaside Grape (Nat. Ord. Poly- 
gonacese), a small tree of South America and the West Indies. 
4. South American or Caracas kino, which is probably derived 
from Coccoloba uvifera. 5. Botany Bay kino, the concrete 
juice of Eucalyptus resinifera (Nat. Ord. Myrtacese), a large 
tree of Australia. 

East India kino is met with in small, angular, shining frag- 
ments, of a dark-brown or reddish-brown color, brittle, without 
smell, but with a very astringent taste. It contains tannic 
acid (of the second variety), kinoic acid (which is the red 
coloring matter), pectin, ulmic acid, and inorganic salts. 

South American kino comes in large masses, externally very 
dark, and internally of a deep reddish-brown color. 

Jamaica kino is like the last, but contained in large 
gourds. 

Effects and Uses. — Kino is a powerful astringent, and is 
much used in diarrhoea, chronic dysentery, leucorrhcea, gonor- 
rhoea, hemorrhages, &c. Externally, it is employed as a 
styptic, and as a stimulant to indolent ulcers. Dose, of the 
powder gr. x to 5ss ; of the tincture (5vj to diluted alcohol, 
consisting of two measures of alcohol and one measure of 
water, fSviij), f5j or f5ij may be given, and it is frequently 
added to chalk mixtures in diarrhoea. It spoils by keeping. 



LOGWOOD. 147 

KRAMERIA — RHATANY. 

Rhatany is the root of Krameria triandra (Nat. Ord. 
Polygalere), a shrub of Peru. It occurs in woody, cylindrical 
pieces, of the thickness of a goose-quill to twice that size — 
many radicles being often united to a common head. They 
have a dark, reddish-brown bark, and a tough central ligneous 
portion, of a lighter red color. They are without smell, but 
have a very astringent, slightly bitter, and sweetish taste, 
which is much stronger in the cortical than the ligneous 
portion ; and, hence the smallest pieces should be preferred, as 
they contain the most bark. Rhatany yields a large proportion 
of tannic acid (of the second variety), and a peculiar acid, 
termed krameric, both of which probably contribute to its 
astringency. It imparts its properties to both cold and 
boiling water, but more fully to alcohol. 

Effects and Uses. — Rhatany is powerfully astringent, with 
some tonic properties. It is much used in the treatment of 
diarrhoea, dysentery, hemorrhages, &c, and as an enema in 
fissure of the anus, hemorrhoids, leucorrhcea, &c. The 
powdered extract is an ingredient in many tooth-powders, and 
the tincture is also used as an astringent mouth-wash. Dose 
of the powder gr. xx to gr. xxx. But it is more employed in 
infusion (a troyounce to boiling water Oj), dose, f 5j or f §ij ; 
watery extract, dose gr. x to gr. xx ; tincture (six troyounces 
to diluted alcohol Oij), dose, f5j to f5ij ; and syrup (twelve 
troyounces percolated with water till four pints of filtered 
liquor are obtained, which is to be evaporated to seventeen 
fluidounces, and in this thirty troyounces of sugar are to be 
dissolved by gentle heat), dose f5j to foss. 

H^MATOXYLON LOGWOOD. 

Logwood, or Campeachy wood, is the wood of Hgematoxylon 
Campechianum {Nat. Ord. Fabacese), a medium-sized tree of 
Campeachy and other maritime parts of tropical America, and 
now naturalized in the West Indies. The portion used in 
medicine, and also as a dye, is the heart-wood, from which the 



148 MATERIA MEDICA. 

bark and white sap-wood are removed, previously to exporta- 
tion. It is imported in billets of different sizes, of a dark 
color externally, and a deep-red internally ; in the shops it is 
kept in chips or raspings. It has a sweetish, astringent, and 
rather peculiar taste, and a feeble, not unpleasant smell. It 
contains tannic acid, a coloring principle called hcematin or 
hematoxylin, volatile oil, resin, &c. 

Effects and Uses. — It is a mild astringent, useful in chronic 
diarrhoea and dysentery, and particularly well adapted to the 
weakened condition of the bowels, which follows cholera infan- 
tum, and is also much employed in the diarrhoea of phthisis. 
It is given either in decoction (a troy ounce to water Oj), in the 
dose of f sj to f Sij to adults, and f5j to 5\j to children ; or 
watery extract in the dose of gr. x to 5ss, in solution. 



QUE ECUS ALBA — WHITE-OAK BARK. QUERCUS 
TINCTORIA — BLACK-OAK BARK. 

The barks of several species of American oaks possess astrin- 
gent properties, and are probably to be found in the shops, but 
the only officinal varieties are Quercus Alba, White Oak, and 
Quercus Tinctoria, Black Oak (Nat. Ord. Amentacese). The 
bark is the portion used, but the leaves and acorns are also 
astringent. White-Oak Bark is distinguished by its whitish 
color. When prepared for use, it is deprived of its epidermis, 
and is of a light-brown color and fibrous texture, with an astrin- 
gent and bitterish taste. Water and alcohol extract its virtues, 
which depend mainly on the presence of tannic and gallic acids, 
with a bitter principle, termed quercin. Black-Oak Bark is 
more furrowed, has a darker color, a more bitter taste, and 
stains the saliva yellow, when chewed; it is much employed as 
a dye, under the name of quercitron. It contains a larger pro- 
portion of tannic and gallic acids than the white-oak bark. 

Effects and Uses. — A decoction of white-oak bark is a good 
remedy in diarrhoea and hemorrhages, and is employed as an 
enema in hemorrhoids, and prolapsus and fissure of the anus, 
as a gargle in relaxation of the uvula, and as an injection in 
leucorrhoea. It is used as a bath in the bowel complaints of 



CRANESBILL. 



149 



children ; and a poultice of the ground bark is applied in gan- 
grene. Black-oak bark is too irritating for internal exhibition : 
but for external use it is a stronger astringent than the white- 
oak bark. Of the decoction of white-oak bark (a troyounce to 
water Oj), f§ij may be taken frequently. 



GERANIUM — CRANESBILL. 
Fig. 13. 




One of the most powerful of the indigenous astringents is 



150 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Geranium maculatum, Crowfoot, or Cranesbill {Nat. Ord. Ge- 
raniacese), a perennial herbaceous plant growing in moist woody 
situations, with an erect stem, one or two feet high, three to 
five-lobed, incised, pale-green, mottled leaves, and large purple 
flowers, which appear in April and May. The part used is the 
rhizoma, which should be collected in the autumn. This, 
when dried, occurs in wrinkled, rough pieces, from a quarter to 
a half an inch in thickness, furnished with slender fibres, of a 
dark-brown color externally, and a pale flesh-color within. It 
has an astringent, but not bitter taste, little or no smell, and 
contains tannic and gallic acids, with some mucilage. 

Effects and Uses. — This is an excellent simple astringent 
agreeing very well with the stomach, and might be advanta- 
geously substituted for more expensive foreign drugs. It may 
be used internally to fulfil the indications of kino, rhatany, &c, 
in bowel complaints and hemorrhages, and topically as an ene- 
ma, gargle, injection, &c. It is also a valuable styptic. Dose, 
in powder, gr. x to xx ; of the decoction (a troyounce to water 
Oj), foj to fSij may be given. A decoction in milk is given to 
children. An extract and tincture are also employed. 



UVA URSI. 

Arctostaphylos, Uva Ursi, or Bearberry {Nat Ord. Eri- 
caceae), is a small, trailing, evergreen shrub, with coriaceous, 
obovate leaves (somewhat like box leaves, and red-whortleberry 
leaves), about half an inch in length, pale rose-colored flowers, 
appearing from June to September, and small red berries 
which ripen during the winter. It is found in the northern 
parts of Asia, Europe, and America. The leaves are the 
only part used. When dried, they have a faint hay-like odor, 
and a bitterish, astringent taste. They yield their virtues to 
water and alcohol, and contain tannic and gallic acids, a prin- 
ciple termed ursin (which is said to act as a diuretic in the dose 
of a grain), extractive, resin, gum, &c 

Effects and Uses.— Uva Ursi is astringent, tonic, and diu- 



PIPSISSEWA. 



151 



retic, and exercises a particular control over discharges from 
mucous surfaces. Hence, its employment in catarrh of the 

Fig. 14. 




bladder, chronic bronchitis, with profuse discharge, &c. It is 
also applicable to the ordinary uses of the vegetable astringents. 
Dose of the powder, 3j to 3ij, three times a day; but it is 
usually given in decoction (a troyounce to water Oj), of which 
f§j to f^ij may be taken three times a day. The fluid extract, 
which is a concentrated tincture, may be given in the dose of 
f5ss-f5j. 



CHIMAPHILA — PIPSISSEWA. 

Chimaphila umbellata, Pipsissewa, Wintergreen, or Ground- 
Holly (Nat, Ord. Pyrolacese), is a small indigenous, evergreen 
plant, common to the northern parts of Europe, Asia, and 
America, and found abundantly in woody situations in all parts 
of the United States. It has an erect stem, three to ten inches 
high, lanceolate, somewhat wedge-shaped, serrated, dark-green 
leaves, arranged in irregular whorls, and beautiful five-petaled 
flowers, of a white color tinged with red, and a very agreeable 






152 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



perfume, which appear in June. The leaves are the officinal 
portion. In the fresh state, they have a fragrant smell when 

Fig. 15. 




bruised, which they loose after drying. Their taste is bitterish 
and astringent, but somewhat aromatic. They contain tannic 
acid, bitter extractive, resin, and probably some acrid volatile 
constituent — as the fresh leaves, when bruised and applied to 
the skin, will cause redness and even vesication. 

Chimaphila maculata, or Spotted Pipsissewa, possesses analo- 
gous properties to those of C. umbellata, from which it differs 
principally in the character of its leaves. They are of a deep 






RED ROSE — PALE ROSE. 153 

olive-green color, veined with greenish-white ; and the flowers 
are a pure white, and appear in July. 

Effects and Uses. — Pipsissewa is astringent and tonic, and 
also diuretic. It is employed in the disorders of the urinary 
organs to which uva ursi is applicable, and also for its diuretic 
properties in dropsy, attended with debility of the digestive 
organs. Indeed, it is classed by some therapeutists among the 
diuretics. It is usually given in decoction (a troyounce to 
water Oi), of which Oj may be taken in the twenty-four hours ; 
and a fermented decoction, made with molasses, ginger, and 
yeast, is often used. An extract is employed, in doses, of gr. 
x to gr. xv. 

The following vegetable astringents deserve notice, though 
less frequently employed than the foregoing : 

Granati Frlctus Cortex {Pomegranate Rind). This is 
the rind of the fruit of Punica granatum, the Pomegranate 
tree (Nat. Ord. Myrtacese), a small tree of Northern Africa, 
Syria, and Persia, now naturalized in the warmer portions of 
Europe, the West Indies, &c. The rind of the fruit is a 
powerful astringent, but is little used internally, from its lia- 
bility to occasion nausea. Dose, in poiuder, gr. xx to 5ss ; but it 
is best given in decoction (a troyounce to water Oj), dose, fgj. 

Rosa (tallica (Bed Hose). Rosa Centifolia (Pale Rose). 
The petals of these two species of rose are officinal, but those 
of almost every other species of cultivated rose may be em- 
ployed for the same purposes as the rosa centifolia, which is 
not astringent. The red rose is a mild astringent, and is chiefly 
used in conjunction with sulphuric acid, in the infusum rosce 
composition — compound infusion of rose (half a troyounce to 
boiling water Oijss, diluted sulphuric acid f oiij, sugar a troy- 
ounce and a half) ; dose, f §ij to f§iv. The confection is used 
as a basis for pills. Mel Rosce (Honey of Roses), made with 
diluted alcohol and clarified honey, is used as an addition to 
gargles ; the syrup is added to mixtures. The pale rose is 
slightly laxative. Aqua Rosce (Rose Water), distilled from the 
pale rose, is much employed in collyria, &c. 



154 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



Diospyros {Persimmon). The unripe fruit of Diospyros 
Virginiana (Nat. Ord. Ebenaceae), an indigenous tree, is em- 
ployed in diarrhoea, dysentery, and uterine hemorrhage, in in- 
fusion, syrup, and vinous and acetous tinctures. The bark is 
bitter and astringent, but is not officinal. 

Tormentilla (Tormentil). The root of Potentilla tormen- 
tilla (Nat Ord. Rosacea), a European plant, is used in Europe 
as an astringent, in the dose of 5ss to 5j, but is seldom or never 
employed in this country. 

Rubus (Blackberry Root). The roots of Rubus villosus, 
and Rubus Canadensis (Nat Ord. Rosacese), the former an 
erect, prickly shrub, and the latter a creeping brier, are very 
efficient mild astringents, which have been used with excellent 
effect in bowel complaints, especially those of children. The 
astringency resides principally in the cortical portion, and 
hence the smallest roots should be preferred ; of the decoction 
(a troyounce to water Oi) fBij may be taken frequently. 

Heuchera (Alum-root). The roots of Heuchera Ameri- 
cana, and other species of Heuchera (Nat Ord. Saxifragacese), 
indigenous plants known under the common name of Alum- 
root, with radical leaves somewhat like those of the maple, and 
numerous radical flower-stems, one to two feet in height, with 
rose-colored flowers arranged in pyramidal panicles — possess 
very decided astringent properties, and may be used both ex- 
ternally and internally. 

A large number of vegetable substances, both indigenous 
and foreign, have been used as astringents, in addition to those 
enumerated — the astringent principle being the most common 
medicinal quality with which plants are endowed. 

The foregoing list comprises all the more important. 



CREASOTUM — CREASOTE. 



Creasote is a peculiar substance obtained from wood-tar, or 
from crude pyroligneous acid. When pure, it is a colorless, 
oleaginous liquid, with a caustic, burning taste, and a penetra- 



CREASOTE. 155 

ting, disagreeable odor, like that of smoked meat. Its sp. gr. 
(U. S. P.) is 1.046 ; its formula is variously given, (C 28 H 16 4 ), 
(and C u H 8 2 ). It forms two solutions with water, one of 1 
part to 80 parts of water, the other of 1 part of water in 10 
parts of creasote ; and it is soluble, in all proportions, in alco- 
hol, ether, naptha, and acetic acid. A remarkable property 
of creasote is its power of preserving meat, whence its name 
(from K peag flesh, and o&fa, I save). 

Effects and Uses. — Creasote, in large doses, is an acro-nar- 
cotic poison. In small doses, it is styptic and astringent, and, 
though not very nearly allied to the vegetable astringent 
articles, which contain tannic acid, it is, perhaps, more 
generally administered for its astringent than for any other 
properties. It is an excellent remedy in hgematemesis, and is 
also employed in haemoptysis and other hemorrhages. It is 
very efficacious in allaying vomiting and gastric irritability, and 
has been exhibited for its astringent virtues with good effect in 
diarrhoea, diabetes, and chronic bronchitis, and as a nervine in 
epilepsy, hysteria, neuralgia, &c. Externally, it is applied, in 
various degrees of dilution, to indolent, sloughing, and foul 
ulcers; in several cutaneous affections; as a gargle in putrid 
sore throat ; and for the relief of deafness. In the concentrated 
form, it is a good styptic in capillary hemorrhages, and is ap- 
plied with effect to the hollows of carious teeth for the removal of 
the pain of toothache. There is no antidote in cases of poison- 
ing from creasote, but stimulants are to be freely administered. 

Dose, internally, one or two drops, frequently repeated, in 
pill, or diluted with mucilage. 

For external use, from two to six drops, or more, may be 
added to a fluidounce of distilled water. 

Aqua Creasoti (Creasote Water) contains 3.72 minims in 
each fluidounce. Dose, f5j-iv. 

Creasote ointment contains half a fluidrachm of creasote in an 
ounce of lard. 



156 MATERIA MEDICA. 



ACIDUM CARBOLICUM — CARBOLIC ACID. 

This substance, termed also phenic acid, phenilic acid, and 
phenilic alcohol, is a product of the distillation of coal-tar oil. It 
is made by treating the impure coal-tar of commerce with a 
weak alkaline solution, when it is resolved, on the addition of 
water, into a light oil and a heavier alkaline liquid ; the latter 
is separated and neutralized with muriatic acid, and the impure 
carbolic acid, which is disengaged, is afterwards distilled from 
dried chloride of calcium, to remove water, when, upon ex- 
posing the distillate to a low temperature, carbolic acid con- 
geals in the form of a colorless crystalline mass. 

In its pure state, it is solid at ordinary temperatures, crys- 
tallizing in minute plates or long rhomboidal needles, white or 
colorless, of a peculiar empyreumatic odor like that of crea- 
sote, (but not identical with it), and an acrid burning taste. 
Its sp. gr. is 1.065, and it deliquesces upon exposure, and ulti- 
mately becomes liquid. When quite pure, it melts at 106° F., 
forming an oily-looking colorless liquid, which boils at 359° F. 
It is soluble in 20 parts of water, and very soluble in alcohol, 
ether, acetic acid, glycerin, and the fixed and volatile oils. 
Although it combines with salifiable bases, it does not act as an 
acid upon colors, or. in neutralizing alkalies, and would be pro- 
perly designated as phenylic alcohol, or the hydrated oxide of 
phenyl (C 12 H 5 ,0 + HO or C 12 H 6 2 ). 

Effects and Uses.— Carbolic acid is a local irritant, and, 
when applied to the skin or mucous membranes, produces 
severe pain, with a white eschar. Taken internally in large 
quantities, it acts as a powerful irritant poison. In small 
doses, its local effects upon the gastro-enteric mucous membrane 
resemble those of creasote, and after absorption (as shown by 
experiments upon the lower animals), it exercises a decided 
influence upon the nerve-centres. Its most interesting pro- 
perty, however, is its destructive influence upon the lower forms 
of vegetable and animal life, through which it arrests fermen- 
tation, and produces a powerful disinfectant and antiseptic 



CARBOLIC ACID. 157 

effect. It is used internally to check vomiting, as an astrin- 
gent" in diarrhoea, in sarcina ventriculi, as an anthelmintic, and 
in zymotic diseases, as scarlatina, diphtheria, &c. As an exter- 
nal application, its uses are still more important. It is em- 
ployed in the concentrated form as a caustic in hospital gan- 
grene, and to produce local anaesthesia, and in various forms of 
dilution, as an application in diphtheria, in cutaneous eruptions 
(especially those of organic origin), as a dressing to foul ulcers, 
abscesses, and sinuses, to compound fractures, to carbuncles, 
to burns and scalds, and, from its influence in coagulating 
albumen, as an hoemostatic. It is also a most valuable dis- 
infectant. The dose, internally, is one or two grains, or, if 
liquified by heat, one or two drops, in sweetened water or gly- 
cerin. For disinfectant purposes, the impure liquid acid (which 
contains from 70 to 90 per cent, of carbolic and cresylic acids 
jointly), answers very well. Carbolates of soda and potassa 
have been also employed. 

Recently, Sulpho-Carbolic Acid, (C 12 H 5 0,S0 3 +2HO), and 
various salts of this acid have been employed. Sulpho-carbolic 
acid is thought to be a more efficient antiseptic and disinfectant 
than carbolic acid alone. The Sulpho-Carbolate of Zinc is 
believed to combine the virtues of zinc-salts and carbolic acid, 
and has been used with success internally in diarrhoea, in the 
same doses as the sulphate of zinc, and externally, in aqueous so- 
lution of from 3 to 6 grs. to the ounce, as an injection in gon- 
orrhoea, and as a dressing for wounds and ulcers. Sulpho-car- 
bolates of soda, potassa, magnesia, lime, and quinia have also 
been employed ; they are recommended as antiseptics in cholera 
and zymotic diseases generally. The sulpho-carbolate of lead 
might be used where the acetate of lead is indicated and the 
corrective action of carbolic acid is called for, while its solu- 
bility in glycerin and alcohol adapt it to external application. 



158 MATERIA MEDICA. 

i 

MINERAL ASTRINGENTS. 
PLUMBI PRiEPARATA — PREPARATIONS OF LEAD. 

Metallic lead is considered inert. The sulphuret and sul- 
phate are probably also inactive ; but, with these exceptions, 
all the compounds of lead possess more or less activity. When 
administered in therapeutical doses, they act as astringents in 
the alimentary canal, checking secretion, and causing consti- 
pation. After absorption, they produce a diminution in the 
volume and frequency of the pulse and in the activity of the 
secreting functions, and frequently arrest sanguineous dis- 
charges, both natural and artificial. In excessive doses, several 
of the saturnine compounds are irritant and corrosive poisons, 
giving rise to gastro-enteric inflammation. The proper anti- 
dotes are sulphuric acid, or some alkaline or earthy sulphate, 
in solution in a large quantity of diluent. The hydrated ses- 
quisulphuret of iron is also said to act as an antidote. The 
tests for lead are sulphuretted hydrogen, and a solution of 
iodide of potassium ; the former strikes a black, and the latter 
a yellow precipitate. 

When the system becomes impregnated with lead, either from 
the too long-continued use of its preparations medicinally, from 
drinking water drawn through lead pipes, or from exposure 
to its influence in lead-factories, &c, a peculiar kind of chronic 
poisoning is produced, which shows itself in a variety of symp- 
toms. The most usual form of lead-poisoning is colic, some- 
times termed colica Pictonum or painters' colic, which is 
characterized by sharp abdominal pains, with hardness and 
depression of the abdominal parietes, obstinate constipation, 
nausea, vomiting, &c. Next in frequency is lead arthralgy, 
in which there are severe pains in the limbs, attended by 
cramps, hardness, and tension of the painful parts. Lead 
paralysis is another, though less common variety of the dis- 
ease, and is characterized by a loss of voluntary motion, owing 
to the want of contractility of the muscular fibres of the 
affected parts. It most frequently affects the upper extremities 



PREPARATIONS OF LEAD. 159 

and the extensor rather than the flexor muscles. Occasionally, 
functional disease of the brain is also observed as one of 
the consequences of lead-poisoning. The absorption of lead 
into the system is recognized by a saturnine coloration of 
the gums, of the mucous membranes of the mouth, and of the 
teeth. The antidotical treatment of chronic lead-poisoning 
consists in the internal administration of solutions of sulphuric 
acid and of soluble alkaline and earthy sulphates, and in 
the use of baths of sulphuret of potassium, dissolved in warm 
water, by which the salts of lead, deposited on the skin, 
are converted into the insoluble sulphuret. The iodide of 
potassium is recommended as an eliminative remedy. For 
lead colic, a combination of cathartics and opiates has been 
employed ; but the best remedy is alum in doses of 5j or 3ij, 
every three or four hours, dissolved in some demulcent liquid. 
In the treatment of lead palsy, strychnia and electricity may 
be used, but it is a very intractable form of the disease. The use 
of sulphuric acid lemonade is resorted to, by workmen in lead 
factories, as a preventive of lead-poisoning. Milk has been 
found also to answer the same purpose. By passing a strong 
solution of the sulphuret of potassium or of sodium, heated to the 
temperature of 212° F., through leaden pipes, the interior 
surface will become coated with an insoluble sulphuret of lead, 
and the water distributed through them will be free from con- 
tamination. 

Therapeutically, the preparations of lead are employed as 
astringents, sedatives, and desiccants. For internal use, the 
acetate is almost exclusively employed. It is a most valuable 
remedy in hemorrhages, from its combined sedative and astrin- 
gent influence, and is also very serviceable in fluxes from the 
mucous membranes, particularly of the bowels. Topically, 
lead washes are employed to relieve superficial inflammation, to 
arrest morbid discharges, and as desiccants. They are objec- 
tionable, however, as eye-washes, from their often forming 
precipitates of lead upon the cornea, which are highly inju- 
rious. 

Plumbi Acetas {Acetate of Lead). This salt (PbO,C 4 H 3 



100 MATERIA MEDICA. 

+ 3IIO), known also as Saceharum Saturni or Sugar of 
Lead, is made by immersing lead in distilled vinegar, or litharge 
in pyroligneous or crude acetic acid. It occurs in colorless, 
needle-shaped crystals, which effloresce on exposure to the air. 
They have an acetous odor, and a sweetish, astringent taste, 
and are soluble in both water and alcohol. The mineral acids 
and their soluble salts, the alkalies and alkaline earths, and 
vegetable astringents, are incompatible with acetate of lead. 

Effects and Uses. — The effects of this salt are those of the 
saturnine preparations, which have been already described. 
Its medicinal influence is sedative and astringent. In hemor- 
rhages, it is more employed internally than any other remedy, 
usually in combination with opium. And this combination is 
also much resorted to in the treatment of diarrhoea, dysentery, 
and cholera, and may be prescribed with advantage to arrest 
the secretion of bronchitis and the night sweats of phthisis. 
In yellow fever, it is employed to check the hemorrhagic condition 
of the gastric mucous membrane. It is a dangerous remedy 
in chronic diseases, from the liability to lead-poisoning. As a 
topical remedy, acetate of lead, in aqueous solution, is exten- 
sively employed to relieve inflammation and diminish morbid 
discharges. 

Dose, gr. j or ij to gr. viij or x, two or three times a day. 
When applied to mucous membranes, the strength of the solu- 
tion may be gr. ss to gr. j or ij, to water f Sj — for phlegmonous 
inflammation, 5\j to water Oj. 

Liquor Plumbi Subacetatis {Solution of Subacetate of 
Lead). This preparation, frequently termed G-oulard's Ex- 
tract, is an aqueous solution of the diacetate of lead (2PbO, 
C4H3O3), and is made by boiling acetate of lead and litharge 
in distilled water. It is a colorless liquid, which is decomposed 
on exposure to the air, with the formation of insoluble carbonate 
of lead, and occasions a dense white precipitate with solution of 
gum. In other respects it resembles a solution of acetate of 
lead. 

Uses. — It is chiefly -employed, diluted, to promote the 
resolution of external inflammation and arrest discharges from 



PREPARATIONS OF LEAD. 161 

suppurating, ulcerated, and mucous surfaces. The officinal 
dilution is Liquor Plumbi Subacetatis Dilutus, commonly known 
as lead water, and consists of solution f5iij, to distilled water 
Oj. Ceratum Plumbi Subacetatis, or Goulard's Cerate, is 
made by mixing four troyounces of melted white wax with 
seven troyounces of olive oil, afterwards adding two fluidounces 
and a half of Goulard's extract, and thirty grains of camphor 
dissolved in a troyounce of olive oil ; it is an admirable 
dressing to excoriated and blistered surfaces, burns, scalds, &c. 

Plumbi Iodidum (Iodide of Lead) (Pbl), is made by the 
double reaction of solutions of nitrate of lead and iodide of 
potassium. It is a bright-yellow, heavy, inodorous powder, 
sparingly soluble in cold water, but readily soluble in boiling 
water. It is chiefly used to reduce the volume of indolent 
tumors, and may be given internally in the dose of gr. iij or iv, 
or more, in pill ; but it is principally employed externally in the 
form of ointment (5j to lard Sj). 

Plumbi Nitras {Nitrate of Lead) (PbO,N0 5 ), made by dis- 
solving litharge in diluted nitric acid, occurs in white, nearly 
opaque octohedral crystals, permanent in the air, of a sweet, 
astringent taste, and soluble in water and alcohol. It may be 
given internally, as a sedative astringent, in doses of gr. \ to 
gr. j, twice or thrice daily, in pill or solution. But its princi- 
pal use is as a topical agent in the treatment of wounds, ulcers, 
and cutaneous affections. Ledoyens Disinfecting Fluid is a 
solution of nitrate of lead 5j in water f 5J. 

Plumbi Oxldum {Oxide of Lead) (PbO) or Litharge, is ob- 
tained in the process for extracting silver from argentiferous 
galenas. It occurs in minute yellowish or orange-colored scales, 
insoluble in water, and is never employed internally. It is 
sometimes sprinkled over ulcers, but its chief use is in the pre- 
paration of Lmplastrum Plumbi or Lead Plaster (called also 
diachylon), which is made by boiling litharge (thirty troyounces) 
with olive oil (fifty-six troyounces) and water, and is, chemically, 
a mixture of oleate and margarate of lead. It serves as a basis 
for most of the other plasters. Emplastrum Saponis {Soap 
Plaster), made by rubbing up soap (four troyounces) with lead 

11 



162 MATERIA MEDICA. 

plaster (thirty-six troyounces), is an excellent discutient. Soap 
Cerate is made by melting together two troyounces of soap 
plaster and two troyounces and a half of white wax, and after- 
wards adding four troyounces of olive oil. 

Plumbi Carbonas (Carbonate of Lead), or White Lead 
(PbO,C0 2 ) is manufactured in this country by exposing lead to 
the fumes of vinegar or acetic acid, carbonic acid being derived 
from the fermentation of tan, in which the pots containing lead 
are packed. It is a white powder, without smell or taste, and 
insoluble in water, and, as it occurs in commerce, is a com- 
pound of the carbonate and hydrate of lead, (2PbO,C0 2 -f 
PbO,HO). It is never administered internally, but is em- 
ployed as a dusting powder — though there is danger of its ab- 
sorption. Unguentum Plumbi Carbonatis (80 grains to oint- 
ment of lard §i) is a good application to burns, &c. White 
paint is used for the same purpose. 



ALUMEN — ALUM. 

Alum is a double salt, a sulphate of alumina and potassa 
(Al 2 03,3S0 3 +KO,S03+24HO). It is found native in Italy, 
in the neighborhood of Rome, but is usually manufactured from 
alum ores, and sometimes by the direct combination of its con- 
stituents. It crystallizes in regular octohedrons ; but it is com- 
monly found in the shops in large, colorless, transparent, crys- 
talline masses, without any regular form. It has an astringent 
and sweetish, acid taste ; by exposure to the air it slowly efflo- 
resces ; it is soluble in cold water, and more so in boiling water ; 
and, when heated, it undergoes the watery fusion, swells up, 
gives out its water of crystallization, and is converted into a 
white, spongy mass, called dried alum. The alkalies and their 
carbonates, lime-water, magnesia and its carbonate, tartrate of 
potassa, acetate of lead, and the vegetable astringents, are in- 
compatible with alum. 

Besides the potash alum, there are varieties in which the 
potash is replaced by some other base, as ammonia or soda ; 






SULPHATE OF ALUMINA. 163 

ammonia alum is the common alum of commerce (A1 2 3 ,3S0 3 + 
NH 4 0,S0 3 -i-24HO). 

Physiological Effects. — The immediate topical effect of alum 
is that of a powerful astringent, in virtue of a chemical action 
on the tissues. When it is applied to a part, in large quan- 
tities, the astriction is soon followed by irritation ; and thus, 
taken internally in excessive doses, it gives rise to vomiting, 
griping, purging, and even inflammation of the gastro-enteric 
mucous membrane. After its absorption, it acts as an astrin- 
gent on the system generally, and produces astriction of the 
tissues and fibres, and a diminution of secretion. 

Medicinal Uses. — Alum is employed internally in hemor- 
rhages, chronic diarrhoea, colliquative sweating, diabetes, &c, 
and it is sometimes combined with cubeb in the treatment of 
gleet, gonorrhoea, and leucorrhcea. It has been recommended 
in dilatation of the heart and aneurism of the aorta, and has 
also been given as an emetic in croup. Its use in lead colic 
has been alluded to. As a topical remedy it is extremely 
valuable as an astringent antiphlogistic, in ophthalmia, diphthe- 
ria, tonsillitis, &c. ; to produce contraction of the tissues, in 
relaxation of the uvula, prolapsus ani, &c. ; as a styptic in 
hemorrhages ; and to arrest excessive secretion from the mu- 
cous surfaces. 

Dose, gr. x to 3j or 3ij, in powder, or solution, or made into 
pills, with some tonic extract, and combined with an aromatic, as 
nutmeg, to prevent nausea. It may be agreeably given in the form 
of whey, prepared by boiling 5\j with milk Oj, and straining, of 
which the dose is f§ij. Topically, it is employed in the forms 
of powder, solution, and poultice, the latter of which is made 
by rubbing up whites of eggs with alum, and is applied to the 
eye in ophthalmia, between folds of linen. Dried alum (alumen 
exsiccatum), is employed internally in the dose of gr. v-x, and 
externally as a mild escharotic. 

Alumina Sulphas [Sulphate of Alumina), is employed ex- 
ternally as an astringent and antiseptic application to ulcers, 
an injection in gonorrhoea, &c. The aqueous solution is used 



164 MATERIA MEDICA. 

to preserve bodies for dissection. A paste, made of a mixture 
of sulphate of alumina and sp. nitrous ether, applied to the 
cavity of a carious tooth, is a good remedy for toothache. 



ORDER VI. — STIMULANTS. 

Stimulants are medicines, which produce a rapid and tem- 
porary exaltation of the vital functions. Their influence is 
most conspicuous in conditions of morbid depression, when a 
marked tolerance of their action is established, and large 
amounts are borne. In health, when the powers of the system 
are at the normal standard, stimulants soon induce depression. 
Topically, they irritate and inflame the parts to which they are 
applied, and hence are elapsed with irritants. 

They are employed principally in disorders known as as- 
thenic, and in all conditions of the system attended with ex- 
haustion. From their action in arousing the energies of the 
nervous system, they exercise a control over many nervous 
disorders, particularly those of a spasmodic nature. They are 
also frequently given with a view to their action on some one or 
other of the secretions. As stimulants to the gastro-intestinal 
canal, they are administered to promote digestion (when they 
are called stomachics), and to dispel flatulence (when they are 
known as carminatives). Topically, they are employed as 
rubefacients, vesicants, &c. 

The more powerful and rapid stimulants are called diffusible. 
In overdoses, they act as violent narcotics and sedatives. The 
diffusible stimuli usually employed are vinous and spirituous 
liquors, and the preparations of ammonia. Vegetable stimu- 
lants which contain a volatile oil, are termed aromatics, and are 
usually given as stomachics and carminatives. Their volatile 
oils are also employed as local irritants. 



PREPARATIONS OF ALCOHOL. 165 

DIFFUSIBLE STIMULANTS. 
ALCOHOL. 

Alcohol is a product which results from a process termed 
the vinous fermentation, in substances containing grape-sugar. 
At a temperature of 80° I\, the presence of a fermenting body 
converts a solution of grape-sugar into alcohol and carbonic 
acid. Starchy substances, being convertible into grape-sugar, 
also yield alcohol. Alcohol is obtained from vinous or fer- 
mented liquors, by repeated distillation. It is, chemically, a 
hydrated oxide of ethyl, C 4 H 6 2 , or C 4 H 5 0+HO. For officinal 
purposes, it should be of the specific gravity 0.835, when it 
contains about fifteen per cent, of water. It is a colorless, 
inflammable liquid, wholly vaporizable by heat, and unites in 
all proportions with water and ether. A stronger alcohol, alcohol 
fortius, sp. gr. 0.817, is made by shaking officinal alcohol with 
heated carbonate of potassa. This is free from water and 
fusel oil, and is used for pharmaceutical purposes. 

Physiological Effects. — Alcohol is the intoxicating ingredient 
of all vinous and spirituous liquors. It is a powerful diffusible 
stimulant — in small doses, exciting the vascular and nervous 
systems, increasing the heat of the body, exhilarating the 
mental faculties, and stimulating the secretions. In excessive 
quantity, it acts as a narcotic poison, producing coma and 
death. The treatment in cases of poisoning from alcohol is 
the same as that which is to be pursued in cases of. poisoning 
from opium. Ammonia is a physiological antidote. The 
habitual use of alcoholic stimuli in excess gives rise to a 
well-known train of mental and physical disorders : dyspepsia, 
visceral obstructions, cirrhosis of the liver, gout, dropsy, 
mania-a-potu, and even confirmed insanity. Topically, alcohol 
acts as an irritant. 

Medicinal Uses. — Alcohol, in the form of vinous and 
spirituous liquors, is employed to rouse and support the 
system in asphyxia, syncope, the latter stages of acute attacks, 
typhoid and typhus fevers, asthenic and malignant diseases, 



166 MATERIA MEDICA. 

exhausting hemorrhages and suppurations, gangrene, to coun- 
teract the effects of the bites of venomous reptiles, in mania-a- 
potu, and in poisoning from foxglove, tobacco, and other 
narcotics: also as a 'stomachic in colic, flatulence, indigestion, 
nausea, &c. As a topical application, alcohol is used to 
produce cold by its evaporation ; as a styptic ; to harden the 
cuticle over delicate parts ; and as a stimulant. Mixed with 
white of eggs, it forms a good coating to bed-sores. 

Alcohol Dilutum (Diluted Alcohol), or Proof Spirit, con- 
sists of equal parts of alcohol and distilled water, and has a 
sp. gr. 0.941. It is used exclusively for pharmaceutical pur- 
poses. 

Vinum ( Wine). The fermented juice of the grape consists 
of water and alcohol in varying proportions, with volatile oil, 
oenanthic acid and ether, tannic, malic, and other acids, bitar- 
trate of potassa, &c. Wine loses most of its cream of tartar 
by age. It is employed medicinally to support the system in 
typhus and typhoid fevers, exhausting chronic diseases, exten- 
sive suppurations, gangrene, &c. In typh-fevers, it constitutes 
our chief therapeutic resource, and may be administered to the 
amount of one or two pints, in the twenty-four hours, either 
pure, or in the form of wine-whey. This is made by adding 
from a gill to half a pint of white wine to a pint of boiling 
milk, separating the curd from the whey, and flavoring with 
sugar and spices. 

The officinal wines are Vlnum Xericum (Sherry), and 
Vinum Portense (Port). Port contains tannic acid, and is 
preferred in dysentery, diarrhoea, &c, for its astringency. 
Madeira, which is the strongest of the white wines, is an 
excellent stimulant, but may be objectionable from its acidity. 
Champagne is a pleasant stimulant, where gastric irritability is 
present. Madeira and Port contain about 23 per cent, of 
alcohol ; Sherry, 19 per cent. ; Champagne, 13 per cent. As 
articles of diet, the stronger wines, when used in excess, often 
produce gout, dropsy, and diseases of the kidneys and liver ; 
and, except in advanced age, and in feeble constitutions, cannot 
but be considered as objectionable. 



PREPARATIONS OF AMMONIA. 167 

The malt liquors are useful where more permanent stimuli 
are called for, as in diseases tending to emaciation, chronic 
abscesses, &c. The best are porter and ale. 

Spiritus Vini Gallici (Brandy), is obtained by the distil- 
lation of wine. It contains about 50 per cent, of alcohol, 
with water, volatile oil, tannic acid, coloring matter, &c. It is 
the best stimulus, where a rapid and decided impression is 
called for, as in collapse, syncope, &c. ; and, from the tannic 
acid which it contains, is useful in bowel-complaints. Rum 
(spiritus sacehari), the ardent spirit obtained from sugar, and 
whisky (spiritus frumenti), obtained by the distillation of fer- 
mented infusions of corn, may be used as substitues for brandy. 
Spiritus myrcioe {bay-rum), the spirit obtained by distilling rum 
with the leaves of myrcia acris, is a refreshing local application. 
Gin is corn spirit flavored- with juniper; and, owing to the oil 
of juniper, which it holds in solution, it is an active diuretic as 
well as stimulant. Arrack, the spirit of Eastern countries, is 
prepared from fermented infusions of rice. 

AMMONIA PR^PARATA — PREPARATIONS OF 
AMMONIA. 

Ammonia is a gaseous compound of hydrogen and nitrogen 
(NH 3 ), usually obtained by the action of lime on sal ammoniac 
(or muriate of ammonia). It is a powerful stimulant and local 
irritant, but is rarely used in medicine. The following prepa- 
rations of Ammonia are employed as diffusible stimuli : 

Aqua Ammonite Fortior (Stronger Water of Ammonia). 
This is an aqueous solution of ammonia, of the specific gravity 
0.900. It is a colorless liquid, of a caustic, acrid taste, and a 
very pungent odor of ammonia ; and is too strong for medicinal 
use, internally, in its unmixed state, containing 26 per cent, of 
gaseous ammonia. It is a powerful corrosive poison, for which 
the diluted acids, as vinegar, lemon juice, &c, are the proper 
antidotes. It is used externally as a vesicant, and has the ad- 
vantage over cantharides of a more speedy operation and non- 
affection of the urinary organs. 



168 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Aqua Ammonle ( Water of Ammonia), has a specific gravity 
of 0.960, containing nearly 10 per cent, of ammonia, and is 
employed as a stimulant, sudorific, antacid, and rubefacient. 
As a stimulant, ammonia is admirably adapted for speedily 
rousing the action of the vascular and respiratory systems, 
especially when it is an object at the same time to promote the 
action of the skin. For this purpose it is employed in low 
forms of disease, particularly in the typhoid exanthemata, in 
syncope, in asphyxia from narcotic poisons, and to counteract 
the effects of the bites of venomous reptiles. In dyspepsia, it is 
useful with a view to the relief both of acidity and flatulence. 
For internal use, other preparations of ammonia are generally 
preferred, and this is used chiefly as a rubefacient. As a rube- 
facient, the officinal liniment may be used (a fluidounce of 
water of ammonia to two troyounces of olive oil). Dose, inter- 
nally, ten to thirty drops, largely diluted. 

Spibitus Ammonle {Spirit of Ammonia) is a solution of 
ammonia in alcohol. It is given as a stimulant, antispasmodic, 
and carminative, in the dose of ten to thirty drops, diluted 
with water. But a pleasanter preparation, with similar pro- 
perties, is 

Spibitus Ammonle Abomaticus {Aromatic Spirit of Am- 
monia). This is made by dissolving a troyounce of carbonate 
of ammonia in three fluidounces of water of ammonia, pre- 
viously mixed with four fluidounces of water, then dissolving 
two fluidrachms and a half of oil of lemon, forty minims of oil of 
nutmeg, and fifteen minims of oil of lavender, in a pint and a 
half of alcohol, afterwards mixing the two solutions, and adding 
water enough, to make the whole measure two pints. It is a 
very agreeable antacid stomachic and stimulant, and may be 
given in the dose of thirty drops to f5j, or more, diluted with 
water. 

Ammonije Cabbonas {Carbonate of Ammonia). This salt, 
sometimes termed volatile alkali, is a sesquicarbonate (2NH 4 0, 
3C0 2 ), and is prepared by subliming a mixture of muriate of 
ammonia and chalk. It occurs in whitish, transparent masses, 
wholly dissipated by heat, of a pungent, ammoniacal odor, an 



ARNICA. 169 

acrid, alkaline taste, and is soluble without residue in water. 
On exposure to the air, it becomes opaque, falls into powder, 
and deteriorates by the loss of ammonia. 

Effects and Uses. — Its indications are the same as those of 
solution of ammonia, to which it is preferred for internal ex- 
hibition as a diffusible stimulant. It is especially valuable in 
pneumonia, and by some therapeutists is relied on to the ex- 
clusion of other medication in this disease. It has also been 
recommended in diabetes, and in scrofula, attended with a 
languid circulation. Dose, gr. v to xx, in pill, or preferably in 
solution with gum and sugar. Mixed with some aromatic oil 
(as that of bergamot or lavender), it is used, as a smelling salt, 
in syncope, hysteria, &c. 



ARNICA. 

Arnica montana, Leopard's-bane (Nat. Ord. Asteracese), is a 
perennial, herbaceous plant, found in Northern Germany and 
other northern countries of Europe, and also in the north- 
western portions of America. The flowers are described by 
the U. S. Pharmacopoeia as the officinal portion, but the article 
of commerce consists really of the heads, from which frequently 
the involucre has been removed : they are brought here from 
Germany. They are large, of a fine orange-yellow color, of a 
strong, disagreeable odor when fresh (which is diminished by 
desiccation), and an acrid, bitterish taste. The root also is 
used in Europe. Both contain a volatile oil, and an alkaloid 
principle termed arnieina has been found in them. Arnica is 
a stimulant, with emetic and cathartic properties in large doses. 
Its effects, internally, are not very well understood in this 
country, where it is little used, except externally, in the form 
of fomentation, or lotion, for the relief of bruises, sprains, and 
local paralysis. The alcoholic extract is given in closes of gr. 
v-x. This is chiefly used, however, in making a plaster 
(emplastrum arnica?, one part of extract to two parts of pre- 
viously melted resin plaster). The tincture (six troyounces to 



170 MATERIA MEDICA. 

diluted alcohol Oij) is used as a local stimulant, often mixed 
with soap liniment. 

Phosphorus has been used, in small doses, as a diffusible 
stimulant ; it is also diuretic and aphrodisiac. In overdoses, 
however, it is a most violent irritant poison, and is too danger- 
ous for general medicinal use. Dose, gr. Jg to gr. J, dissolved 
in almond or sweet oil, chloroform, ether, or oil of turpentine. 
It is probably converted into phosphoric acid in the stomach, 
and among the effects of its poisonous action, is the production 
of acute fatty degeneration of the tissues. In cases of poison- 
ing from phosphorus, after the administration of an emetic, 
magnesia should be given, suspended in large quantities of 
water. The oil of turpentine is also recommended as an 
antidote. 

The Phosphitret of Zixc has lately been employed in cases 
where the administration of phosphorus is indicated. It is pre- 
pared by passing the vapor of phosphorus over zinc heated to 
ebullition, in a current of dry hydrogen, and occurs as a gray 
crystallized body, unaltered by moist air, and easily decomposed 
in the stomach, with the evolution of phosphuretted hydrogen. 
Dose, about gr. ^g. 



AROMATICS. 

Aromatics owe their virtues to the presence of oils obtained 
from them by distillation, and termed volatile oils (olea vola- 
tilia), sometimes also distilled and essential oils. These oils 
possess, in a high degree, the odor and taste of the plants from 
which they are procured. Locally, they are powerful irritants, 
and, taken into the stomach in overdoses, act as acrid poisons. 
They pass partially into vapor at ordinary temperatures, and 
are completely volatilized by heat ; hence, decoctions and ex- 
tracts are improper preparations of the aromatics. The dis- 
tilled oils are inflammable, very slightly soluble in water, but 
soluble in alcohol and ether. Their ultimate constituents are, 



CAYENNE PEPPEK. 171 

usually, carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen ; and, on exposure to 
the air, they gradually absorb oxygen, become thicker, less 
odorous, and of a deeper color, and are finally converted into 
resins. 



CAPSICUM — CAYENNE PEPPER. 

Cayenne pepper is the fruit of Capsicum annuum and other 
species of Capsicum (Nat. Orel. Solanacese), American tropical 
plants, naturalized in most warm climates, and cultivated in 
our gardens. C. annuum is an annual, about two feet high, 
with an herbaceous, crooked, branching stem ; ovate, pointed 
leaves ; greenish- white flowers ; and pendulous pod-like berries 
of a crimson or yellow color, two or three inches long. These 
pods, when dried and ground, form Cayenne pepper, the best 
of which is the African. Powdered capsicum has a bright-red 
color, which fades upon exposure to light ; an aromatic, peculiar 
smell, and a bitterish, acrid, burning taste. The active princi- 
ple is now believed to be an alkaloid, which should be termed 
capsicia; it is slightly soluble in water, but very much so in 
alcohol, ether, and oil of turpentine. 

Effects and Uses. — Capsicum is principally employed as a 
condiment and stomachic, and is very useful in torpid conditions 
of the digestive organs, or as an adjunct to other remedies to 
rouse the susceptibility of the stomach. Its constitutional 
effect is not in proportion to its local effect, and it is therefore 
of no great efficiency as a diffusible stimulant. It has, however, 
been recommended in cynanche maligna and scarlatina angi- 
nosa. It is a good stomachic in the dyspepsia of drunkards. 
As a gargle, it is much employed in the sore throat of scarla- 
tina, and also as a cataplasm to cause counter-irritation. Dose 
of the poivder, gr. v to gr. x, in pill ; of the tincture (a troy- 
ounce to diluted alcohol Oij), f 5j or f 5\j ; of the infusion, 
which is used also for a gargle (half a troyounce to boiling 
water Oj), f Sss. The oleoresin is a powerful rubefacient, and 
may be given internally in the dose of a drop. 



172 MATERIA MEDICA. 

I 

PIPER — BLACK PEPPER. 

Black pepper is the berries of Piper Nigrum {Nat. Ord. 
Piperaceae), a vine of the East Indies. The berries are gathered 
before they are quite ripe, and dried in the sun. They are 
wrinkled and black, in consequence of the drying of the pulp 
over the grayish-white seed, and in this state are known as 
black pepper. If permitted to ripen, and soaked in water till 
the outer coat is removed, they constitute white pepper. 
Pepper has an aromatic, peculiar odor, and a hot, spicy, pun- 
gent taste. Its properties are taken up by alcohol and ether, 
and partially by water. It contains a volatile oil, an acrid 
resin, and a peculiar alkaloid crystalline principle, called 
pijperin, which has been used as an anti-intermittent remedy. 

Effects and Uses. — Pepper is a warm carminative stimulant, 
chiefly employed as a condiment ; but it is also a useful stom- 
achic, and a good adjunct to bark in the treatment of intermit- 
tent fevers. Dose, gr. v to gr. xx. Of the oleoresin the dose 
is 1-3 drops. 



CINNAMOMUM — CINNAMON. 

There are two varieties of cinnamon : Ceylon cinnamon, 
which is the bark of Cinnamomum Zeylanicum {Nat Ord. 
Lauraceae), a tree of Ceylon and Java ; and China Cinnamon, 
or Cassia, the bark of Cinnamomum aromaticum {Nat Ord. 
Lauraceae), a tree of China. The most esteemed is the Ceylon 
cinnamon. To obtain this, the bark is peeled from branches 
which are three years old ; the epidermis is afterwards scraped 
off-; the smaller quills are introduced into the larger ones, and 
they are then dried in the sun and made into bundles. It is 
found in the shops in long, cylindrical pieces, which are very 
thin and smooth, and of a yellow-brown color, and a splintery 
fracture. It has a fragrant odor, and a warm, sweetish, aro- 
matic, slightly astringent taste. Its constituents are volatile 
oil, a little tannic acid, mucilage, an acid, lignin, &c. The 



NUTMEG. 173 

greater part, however, of the cinnamon brought to this country- 
is the cassia cinnamon. It has the general appearance, smell, 
and taste of true cinnamon. But its substance is thicker, its 
texture coarser, its fracture shorter, its color darker, browner, 
and duller, and its flavor less sweet, and more pungent and 
astringent. Its properties are identical with those of the 
Ceylon variety. 

Effects and Uses. — Cinnamon is an aromatic stimulant, with 
a slight astringency. It is used chiefly as a carminative, and 
as an addition to other medicines. Dose, gr. x to 5ss ; of the 
tincture (three troy ounces to diluted alcohol Oij), the dose is 
f 5j to f 3iij. Oleum cinnamomi (oil of cinnamon), is of a light- 
yellow color, which deepens by exposure to the air, with the 
development of an acid, termed cinnamic ; dose, one or two 
drops. Aqua cinnamomi (cinnamon water), is prepared by 
rubbing up the oil with carbonate of magnesia, adding distilled 
water, and filtering.* It is used as a vehicle for other medi- 
cines. Spiritus cinnamomi (spirit of cinnamon), contains one 
part of the oil dissolved in fifteen parts of stronger alcohol ; 
dose, ten to twenty drops. Cinnamon enters into a large 
number of preparations. 



MYRISTICA — NUTMEG. 
MACIS — MACE. 

These products are portions of the fruit of Myristica mos- 
chata (Nat. Ord. Myristicaceae), a tree of the Moluccas, culti- 
vated also in Java and Sumatra, and other parts of the East 
Indies, and introduced into the isles of France and Bourbon, 
and several of the West India islands. It bears a pyriform 
fruit, about the size of a small peach, which has a fleshy peri- 
carp, opened by two longitudinal valves. Within- this is the 
arillus, a scarlet reticulated membrane, which, when dry, be- 

* The waters of the aromatic oils are all made by rubbing up half a fluid- 
drachm of the oil with 60 grains of carbonate of magnesia, then with two 
pints of distilled water, and afterwards filtering. 



174 MATERIA MEDICA.. 

comes yellow-brown and brittle, and is termed mace. The 
kernels of the fruit are the nutmegs. 

They are oval, of the size of an olive, of a greyish-brown 
color, marked with furrows ; and to preserve them from the 
attacks of an insect, they are steeped in a mixture of lime and 
water. Mace has a pleasant, aromatic smell, and a warm, bit- 
terish, pungent taste. Nutmegs have a delightfully fragrant 
odor, and a warm, aromatic, grateful taste. 

Nutmegs contain a volatile oil, and by expression yield a 
fatty substance, known as "butter of nutmegs." From mace, 
also, a volatile oil is obtained by distillation. 

Effects and Uses. — Nutmeg is one of the most agreeable of 
the aromatic stimulants, and is much employed for its carmina- 
tive virtues, also as a flavoring ingredient, and to obviate the 
griping effects of cathartics. It is said to have narcotic pro- 
perties, and hence may be useful in bowel-complaints. Mace 
is chiefly employed as a condiment. Dose of either, 3j to 
5ss. Oleum myristicai (oil of nutmeg), is of a pale straw-color ; 
dose 2 or 3 drops. Spiritus myristicai is made by distilling two 
troyounces of nutmeg in eight pints of diluted alcohol and a 
pint of water to eight pints ; dose, f5j or f5ij. 



CARYOPHYLLUS — CLOVES. 

Cloves are the unexpanded flowers of Caryophyllus aro- 
maticus (Nat. Ord. Myrtacese), an evergreen tree of the Mo- 
luccas. They are from five to ten lines long, and from one 
line to one line and a half thick, the corolla forming a ball or 
sphere at the top, and the calyx a tapering, somewhat quadran- 
gular base, resembling a nail, whence the common name, from 
the French, clou. When good, they are of a dark-brown color, 
with a yellowish red tint ; they have a strong, fragrant odor, a 
hot acrid taste, and, when pressed with the nail, should give 
out oil. They contain a volatile oil, tannic acid, resin, &c, and 
two crystalline principles, termed caryophyllin and eugenin ; 
the oil consists of two oils, a heavy oil and a light oil. 



OIL OF TURPENTINE. 175 

Effects and Uses. — Cloves are among the most stimulating 
of the aromatics, but are chiefly used as a flavoring ingre- 
dient and as a condiment. Dose, gr. v to gr. x. The infusion, 
(5\j, to boiling water Oj) is a warm, grateful stomachic. The 
oil, oleum caryophylli, is pale, or yellowish, becoming darker by 
age ; dose, 2 to 6 drops. 



PIMENTA- — PIMENTO. 

Pimento, called also Allspice, is the unripe berries of 
Eugenia Pimenta (Nat. Ord. Myrtacese), a handsome ever- 
green tree of the West Indies and South America. It 
comes exclusively from Jamaica, and consists of round, brown, 
roughish berries, rather larger than black peppercorns, with an 
external hard, brittle shell, inclosing two dark-brown seeds. 
They have an aromatic, agreeable smell, and a strong, clove- 
like taste. They are principally used as a condiment. The oil, 
oleum pimentos, has a brownish-red color ; dose, 3 to 6 drops. 

Oleum Cajuputi (Cajeput Oil). The volatile oil of the 
leaves of the Melaleuca Cajupjuti (Nat. Ord. Myrtacese), a tree 
of the Moluccas, is a powerful diffusible aromatic stimulant, 
much employed in Eastern countries, and of late coming into 
use in the United States. It is a transparent oil, of a fine 
green color, a lively penetrating odor, analogous to that of 
camphor and cardamom, and a warm, pungent taste. It is an 
admirable stomachic, for the relief of nausea, and is also used 
as an antispasmodic stimulant in low fevers, spasmodic cholera, 
&c. ; dose, 1 to 5 drops. 

OLEUM TEREBINTHINiE — OIL OF TURPENTINE. 

Oil of turpentine, commonly called spirit of turpentine, is 
obtained by distillation from the turpentine of Pinus palustris 
and other species of Pinus (Nat. Ord. Pinacese). When pure, it 
is a limpid, colorless, volatile, and inflammable liquid, of a strong, 
penetrating, peculiar odor, and a hot, pungent, bitterish taste. 



176 MATERIA MEDICA. 

It is lighter than water, very slightly soluble in it, less soluble in 
alcohol than most other volatile oils, and readily soluble in ether. 

Effects and Uses. — Oil of turpentine is stimulant, diuretic, 
blennorrhetic, and anthelmintic, and, externally, rubefacient. 
As a stimulant, it is a very valuable remedy in typhoid fever, 
particularly where the abdomen is tympanitic, the tongue dry, 
and the bowels are ulcerated. It is employed also with advan- 
tage in morbid discharges from mucous membranes, hemorrha- 
ges, rheumatism, nervous disorders, atonic dropsy, gleet, 
nephritic and calculous affections, and as an anthelmintic in 
taenia. Enemata of the oil of turpentine are particularly 
serviceable for the relief of tympanites. Externally, it is used 
for purposes of counter-irritation. 

Dose, as a stimulant or diuretic, five to thirty drops, 
repeated; as an anthelmintic or as an enema, fgss to fSij. 

ZINGIBER — GINGER. 

Ginger is the rhizoma of Zingiber officinale {Nat. Ord. 
Zingiberaceae), a perennial, herbaceous plant, growing to the 
height of two or three feet, with long, lanceolate leaves and 
yellow flowers. Its native country is unknown : but it has 
been cultivated in Asia from time immemorial, and was early 
introduced into the tropical regions of America. Ginger root 
occurs in flattish, jointed, branched or lobed, palmate pieces, 
which rarely exceed four inches in length. In the young 
state, the roots are preserved in sugar, and form a very 
pleasant sweetmeat. When old, they are taken up, scalded in 
hot water, and dried, when they are known as black ginger. 
Sometimes they are scraped, previously to being dried, and are 
then called white, or Jamaica ginger. The former comes from 
the East Indies; the latter, from the West Indies. The 
powder of black ginger is yellowish-brown ; that of white 
ginger, yellowish-white. Both varieties have a powerful, 
peculiar odor, and a warm, pungent, aromatic taste. They 
impart their virtues to water and alcohol, and contain a pale- 
yellow volatile oil, resin, starch, &c. 



. CARDAMOM. 177 

Effects and Uses. — Ginger is a pungent, aromatic stimulant, 
much employed as a stomachic in flatulency and spasm of the 
stomach and bowels. It is also used as a condiment, and to 
correct the unpleasant taste and nauseating qualities of other 
medicines. A paste made of the powder and warm water is 
used as a counter-irritant. Dose, gr. x to gr. xx, in pill. An 
infusion (half a troy ounce to boiling water Oj) ; a tincture 
(eight troyounces to alcohol Oij) ; and a syrup, made from the 
tincture, are all used. A fluid extract — dose, 20 to 30 drops, 
and an oleoresin — dose, 1 to 2 drops, have been lately intro- 
duced. Troches of Ginger are made by mixing the tincture 
(f§j) with tragacanth (5ij), sugar (twelve troyounces), and a 
little syrup of ginger. 

CARDAMOMUM — CARDAMOM. 

Cardamom is the fruit of Elettaria Cardamomum (Nat. 
Ord. Zingiberacese), a perennial plant, from six to nine feet 
high, found in the mountainous parts of Malabar. Three 
varieties of Malabar cardamoms are known in commerce : shorts, 
short-longs and long-longs, all furnished by the same plant. 
They are ovate-oblong, from three to ten lines long, coriaceous, 
ribbed, and of a grayish or brownish-yellow color ; and contain 
a number of blackish or reddish-brown seeds, w^hich have a 
pleasant, aromatic odor, and a warm, aromatic, agreeable taste. 
They yield a colorless volatile oil, a fixed oil, starch, &c. 

Effects and Uses. — Cardamom is a very agreeable aromatic, 
devoid of acridity, and is much employed as a stomachic and 
carminative, and as an adjuvant and corrective of other medi- 
cines ; dose gr. v-x. The tincture (four troyounces to diluted 
alcohol Oij) is the preparation chiefly used ; dose, f 5j or f 5ij- 
The compound tincture contains cardamom (360 grains), and 
also caraway (120 grains), cinnamon (300 grains), cochineal (60 
grains), percolated with diluted alcohol till two pints and six 
fluidounces of tincture are obtained, which is afterwards mixed 
with two troyounces of clarified honey. 

Pulvis Aromaticus (Aromatic Powder), consists of cinna- 

12 



178 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



mon and ginger, each two parts, cardamon seeds and nutmeg, 
each one part. Dose, gr. x to xxx. Confectio aromatica 
[aromatic confection), consists of aromatic powder- rubbed up 
with an equal part of honey ; it is a pleasant vehicle for other 
medicines. 



CALAMUS — SWEET FLAG 
Fig. 16. 




The bhizoma of Acorus Calamus {Nat. Ord. Orontiacese), an 



PARTRIDGE-BERRY. 



179 



indigenous marshy plant, with long, sword-shaped, radical 
leaves, is a valuable aromatic stimulant, with some tonic pro- 
perties. It is found in the shops in somewhat flattened pieces, 
deprived of their epidermis, wrinkled, and of a yellowish-color, 
and has a strong, fragrant odor, and a warm, bitterish, aro- 
matic taste. It contains volatile oil, resin, extractive, &c. 
Dose, 3j to 5j, or it may be given in infusion (a troy ounce to 
boiling water Oj). 



GAULTHERI A P A R T R I D G E-B E R R Y. 

Gaultheria procumbens, Partridge-berry, or Tea-berry [Nat. 
Orel. Ericaceae), is a small indigenous evergreen plant, with one, 

Fig. 17. 




and sometimes two reddish stems, a few inches in height, bright- 
green, obovate, coriaceous, serrulated leaves, and white, ovate, 
five-toothed flowers, followed by scarlet berries. The leaves 
are the officinal portion, and contain a very stimulant volatile 
oil, which, when first distilled, is colorless, but gradually be- 



180 MATERIA MEDICA. 

comes reddish, and is distinguished as being the heaviest of the 
volatile oils. An infusion of the leaves, and an essence or 
alcoholic solution of the oil, are in very general popular use as 
carminatives and stomachics. 



AURANTII CORTEX — ORANGE PEEL. 

The outer rind of the fruit of Citrus vulgaris, or Bitter 
Orange, and Citrus aurantium, or Sweet Orange (Nat Ord. 
Aurantiaceas), is much employed as a flavoring addition to 
other medicines. The flowers {aurantii flores) yield the de- 
lightful volatile oil termed oil of neroli, and are used in the 
form of orange flower water [aqua aurantii florum) as an 
agreeable vehicle, possessing slight antispasmodic virtues ; a 
syrup of sweet orange peel is used for flavoring mixtures. 

The following aromatics, of the natural order Lamiace^e, are 
pleasant carminatives and stomachics : 

Lavandula {Lavender). The flowers of Lavandula vera, 
a small European shrub, cultivated in our gardens, about two 
feet high, with linear or lanceolate leaves, and purplish-gray 
flowers, which are gathered in June, and dried in the shade. 
They have an agreeable, fragrant odor, and a pungent bitter 
taste. The oil, which is of a pale-yellow color, may be used 
in the dose of from one to five drops. But the preferred pre- 
parations are the Spirit {Spiritus Lavandulae), made by dis- 
tilling the fresh lavender (24 troyounces) with alcohol (8 pints) 
and water (2 pints) to 8 pints, and the Compound Spirit {Spiritus 
Lavandulae Compositus), which contains also oil of rosemary, 
cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and red saunders ; dose, f5j. 

Mentha Piperita {Peppermint), and Mentha Yiridis 
{Spearmint), are European plants, naturalized in the United 
States. The herds of both are officinal, but the LEAVES only 
should be employed ; they have an aromatic odor, and a pun- 
gent, somewhat bitter taste, followed by a sensation of coolness. 
They contain volatile oils, with some bitter extractive, &c. One 
to five drops of the oils may be given ; but they are usually 



THYME. 181 

administered in the form of essence or spirit (fgij to alcohol 
Oj), in the dose of ten to twenty or forty drops. A water is 
made by rubbing up either of the oils with carbonate of mag- 
nesia and water. The oil of peppermint is the stronger of the 
two. 

Rosmarinus (Rosemary). Rosmarinus officinalis, or Rose- 
mary, a European evergreen shrub, cultivated in our gardens, 
contains a very stimulant volatile oil, which is chiefly used as an 
ingredient of rubefacient liniments. The tops are directed by 
the U. S. Pharmacopoeia, but the leaves are usually found in 
commerce. A spirit is made by dissolving the oil in alcohol. 

Hedeoma (Pennyroyal). Hedeoma pulegioides, or Penny- 
royal, is an indigenous annual plant, about a foot high, with 
oblong-lanceolate, serrated leaves, and small, pale-blue flowers-, 
arranged in axillary whorls. The whole herb is directed by 
the U. S. Pharmacopoeia, but the leaves only should be used, 
which contain a light-yellow essential oil, similar in properties 
to the mint oils, but somewhat more powerful. 

Monarda (Horsemint). The herb of Monarda punctata, or 
horsemint, an indigenous plant. The essential oil is used 
chiefly as a rubefacient. 

Origanum. The herb of Origanum vulgare, or common 
Marjoram. The essential oil is an ingredient in stimulating 
liniments. 

Marrubium (Horeliound). Marrubium vulgare possesses 
combined stimulant, tonic, and expectorant properties, and, in 
large doses, proves laxative. It is chiefly used in cough syrups 
and candies. The herb is officinal, but the leaves should be 
preferred. 

Salvia (Sage). The leaves of Salvia officinalis, a European 
plant, cultivated in our gardens, are used as a condiment, and 
as a gargle in sore throat and relaxed uvula ; they are slightly 
tonic and astringent, as well as aromatic. 

Thymus (Thyme). The herb of Thymus vulgaris yields an 
essential oil, oleum thymi, which is often substituted for oil of 
origanum, and is used as an external application. 



182 MATERIA MEDIC A. 

The following aromatic SEEDS are derived from plants of the 
natural order ApiACEiE : 

Fceniculum (Fennel). The fruit of Fceniculum vulgare, a 
European plant, cultivated in our gardens. It may be used in 
infusion ; the dose of the oil is 5 to 15 drops. Fennel water is 
officinal. 

Carum (Caraioay). The fruit of Carum Carui, a European 
plant, cultivated in this country. Dose of the oil, 1 to 10 
drops. 

Anisum (Anise). The fruit of Pimpinella Anisum, origi- 
nally a native of Egypt, but now cultivated throughout the 
south of Europe. Dose of the oil, 5 to 15 drops. The oil of 
the fruit of Illicium anisatum, or Star Anise, an evergreen tree 
of Japan and China, possesses analogous properties to those of 
oil of anise, and is much used as a substitute for it. 

Coriandrum (Coriander), the fruit of Coriandrum sativum, 
an annual plant of the south of Europe. 



vanilla. 

This is the prepared, unripe capsules of Vanilla aromatica 
(Nat. Ord. Orchidaceae), a climbing plant of Cuba and Mexico. 
The pods, when gathered, are yellow, but by exposure to the 
sun, they assume a dark copper color. They are cylindrical, 
somewhat flattened, wrinkled, six* or eight inches long, three or 
four lines thick, and contain a soft, black pulp, in which 
numerous small black seeds are embedded. Vanilla has a 
strong, characteristic, highly pleasant odor, and a warm, aro- 
matic, sweetish taste ; the interior pulpy portion is most aro- 
matic. The composition of vanilla is not determined, but its 
aroma is probably due to a volatile oil, developed in the curing 
of the pod. 

It is a mild diffusible stimulant, chiefly used, however, as a 
perfume and flavoring ingredient. 



FOXGLOVE. 183 



ORDER VII. SEDATIVES. 

Sedatives are medicines which diminish the force of the action 
of the circulation, by depressing the nervous influence. Many 
narcotics, it has been seen, act as sedatives : as some of the 
solanacese, aconite, hydrocyanic acid, &c. But under this head 
are usually classed the medicinal substances ■ which are em- 
ployed therapeutically to reduce excitement of the vascular 
system. 

With sedatives may be included also the medicinal agents 
termed refrigerants, comprising nearly all the neutral alkaline 
salts, as well as those in which the acid predominates, and the 
vegetable acids. These substances have little power of dimin- 
ishing the ordinary or healthy temperature; but they lower 
febrile heat, allay thirst, restore the secretions, and in this 
way are very useful adjuvants in the treatment of febrile com- 
plaints. 



DIGITALIS — FOXGLOVE. 

Digitalis purpurea, or Purple Foxglove (Nat. Ord. Scrophu- 
lariacese), is a biennial European plant, cultivated in our gar- 
dens, with an erect stem three or four feet high, large ovate- 
knceolate, crenate, downy, and veiny leaves, of a dull-green 
color, and handsome bell-shaped crimson or purple flowers, 
arranged in a long terminal spike. The seeds and leaves are 
both active, but the latter only are employed, from plants of 
the second years growth ; and those from the wild plants are 
preferred, as the cultivated variety is thought to be inferior in 
virtue. The petioles are removed, and the leaves are then 
dried in baskets, in a dark place, in a dryigg-stove. When 
dried, they have a dull-green color, with a faint odor, and a 
bitter, nauseous taste, and afford a fine deep-green powder. 
Both leaves and powder should be preserved in well-stoppered 
bottles, covered externally with dark-colored paper, and kept 
in a dark cupboard. And, as their medicinal activity is im- 



184 MATERIA MEDICA. 

paired by keeping, they should be renewed annually. They 
contain a principle termed digitaline, which possesses similar 
properties to those of the leaves. It is white, inodorous, 
scarcely soluble in water, but very soluble in alcohol, and has 
been employed in medicine, in doses of from g^th to -g^th of a 
grain. 

Physiological Effects. — The ordinary results of the admin- 
istration of digitalis, in small and repeated doses, are an increase 
in the secretion of urine and a reduction of the frequency of 
the pulse, sometimes accompanied by nausea ; but these effects 
are not constant. The influence of digitalis over the pulse is 
more marked in weak and debilitated persons, than in those 
who are robust and plethoric. Its effects, too, in this particu- 
lar, are more easily obtained in the recumbent than in the 
erect posture, owing to the less force required in the former 
position, to carry on the circulation. In the repeated use of 
small doses of this medicine, a cumulative effect is sometimes 
observed : its powers are not manifested for a certain time, 
and effects are suddenly produced, which are attributable to 
the whole amount administered, giving rise to dangerous and 
even fatal syncope. In morbid conditions of the circulation, 
where it is irritable, abnormally quick, or irregular, digitalis is 
considered to exercise a primary medicinal effect, in steadying 
the pulse and restoring its force, while it diminishes morbid 
frequency. As regards its diuretic action, it is probably rather 
indirect than direct, and is manifested only where dropsical 
effusions are removed under its influence. When too long con- 
tinued, or taken in excessive doses, digitalis acts an acro-narcotic 
poison, producing effects similar to those of tobacco, lobelia, 
&c. In such cases, after evacuating the stomach, the diffusible 
stimuli, as brandy and carbonate of ammonia, should be admin- 
istered. The quantity of digitalis, however, that may be given, 
without destroying life, is considerable. 

Medicinal Uses. — From its sedative action on the circula- 
tion, digitalis has been used in fevers, inflammations, and he- 
morrhages, where bloodletting is inadmissible, as in hectic fever, 
tubercular hemoptysis, &c. In the treatment of diseases of the 



AMERICAN HELLEBORE. 185 

heart and great vessels, it is a remedy of the greatest value, to 
reduce the force and frequency of the circulation. It is greatly 
esteemed in the treatment of dropsy ; and in the varieties of 
this disorder, resulting from heart disease, it is more employed 
than any other remedy, from its combined sedative and diuretic 
influence. In delirium tremens, digitalis has lately been given 
in large doses, with excellent effect. 

Administration. — Digitalis is best given in powder, of which 
the dose is gr. j, two or three times a day, to be gradually 
increased. An infusion is officinal (5j to boiling water Oss, 
with tincture of cinnamon fSj) ; but water is a bad solvent. 
The tincture (four troyounces to diluted alcolol Oij), is a better 
preparation — dose, 10 to 20 drops, two or three times a day, to 
be gradually increased. The alcoholic extract is now intro- 
duced — dose, one-fourth of a grain, to begin with. 



VERATRUM VI RIDE — AMERICAN HELLEBORE. 

Yeratrum viride, known as Swamp Hellebore, Meadow Poke, 
Indian Poke, &c. (Nat. Ord. Melanthacese), is an indigenous 
swampy plant, growing to the height of from three to six feet, 
with greenish-yellow flowers. The rhizoma is the officinal 
portion ; it is an inch or two in length, thick and fleshy, with 
numerous whitish radicles, and is usually found in the shops in 
small pieces or fragments, of a dingy white color. It has a 
bitter, acrid taste, which leaves a permanent impression in the 
mouth and fauces. It yields its virtues to water and alcohol, 
and contains two alkaloids, one soluble in ether, the other in- 
soluble in that menstruum, neither of them being identical (as 
was at one time supposed) with veratria. For the former alka- 
loid, the name viridia has been proposed; for the latter, vera- 
troidia. Yiridia has little or no local irritant action, produces 
neither vomiting nor purging, exerts no direct influence on the 
brain, but acts as a depressant of the spinal cord and of the 
circulation. Veratroidia is a local irritant, emetic, and some- 
times a cathartic,, and a depressant also of the circulation. 



186 MATERIA MEDICA. 

*Viridia has been employed to produce the sedative action of 
veratum viride, having the advantage of being free from the 
nauseating and emetic influence which the plant itself often 
produces. Dose, gr. J every hour. 

Effects and Uses. — American hellebore is an active local 
irritant. Taken internally, it somewhat promotes the flow of 
urine, and in doses of about five grains proves emetic. In con- 
tinued doses it produces a marked sedative action on the circula- 
tion, irrespective of the nausea induced, which indeed may be 
prevented by careful administration. It has not generally proved 
laxative. No fatal effects are recorded from its use ; stimu- 
lants invariably counteracting any excessive sedation. Within 
a few years past, this medicine has been largely used in our 
Southern States in inflammatory and febrile affections, particu- 
larly pneumonia and typhoid fever, with a view to its sedative 
action. It has been also used in cardiac affections, and in 
gout, rheumatism and neuralgia. Dose, of the powder, gr. i-ij, 
to begin with ; of the tincture (sixteen troyounces to alcohol 
Oij), 8 or 10 drops ; of the fluid extract, 4 or 5 drops. 



VERATRUM ALBUM — WHITE HELLEBORE. 

The rhizoma of Veratrum Album (Nat Ord. Melanthaceae), 
a mountainous European plant, is found in the shops in small, 
rough, wrinkled, conical, cylindrical pieces, blackish externally, 
and whitish internally ; its odor, in the dried state, is feeble ; 
its taste at first sweetish, afterwards bitterish, acrid, and burn- 
ing. It contains veratria, and other principles. 

Effects and Uses. — White hellebore is a local irritant. In 
moderate doses, it stimulates the secretions, and depresses the 
pulse. In larger doses, it is a violent emetic and cathartic. It 
is an ancient remedy, now, however, from its severity of action, 
comparatively little used. Dose, gr. ij, to begin with. A wine 
is prescribed, and an ointment, in itch. As an errhine, it is 
sometimes mixed with five or six parts of powdered liquorice 
root, or other inert powder. 



YELLOW JASMINE. 187 

Veratkia (C 64 H 52 N 2 16 ) is usually obtained from Cevadilla, 
the seeds of Veratrum Sabadilla (Nat. Ord. Melanthaceae), a 
plant of Mexico. It is made by evaporating a strong tincture 
of the seeds to the consistence of an extract, from which the 
alkaloid is dissolved by diluted sulphuric acid, and afterwards 
precipitated by magnesia. For purification it is dissolved in 
alcohol, from which it is evaporated, again converted into a 
sulphate, decolorized by animal charcoal, and finally precipi- 
tated by ammonia. When pure it is white, but is usually a 
grayish or brownish-white powder, without odor, and of a bitter 
acrid taste, producing a sense of tingling or numbness in the 
tongue ; scarcely soluble in cold water, but readily soluble in 
alcohol. It has an alkaline reaction, and strikes an intensely 
red color with concentrated sulphuric acid. The most delicate 
test for veratria is Trapp's — a permanent lilac red color, re- 
sembling a solution of permanganate of potassa, afibrded by 
heating it in muriatic acid. Its effects are locally those of an 
irritant, and, when rubbed on the skin, it causes a sensation of 
heat and tingling. Taken internally, in small doses, it stimu- 
lates the secretions and depresses the pulse, and in excessive 
doses, it is a violent poison, producing tetanic symptoms : it is 
without narcotic action on the brain, producing death from 
paralysis of the spinal cord. Stimulants and ethereal inhala- 
tion would be the proper treatment in case of poisoning. 
Veratria has been used internally, in nervous disorders, drop- 
sies, gout, rheumatism, &c, in doses of gr. J^ to \ repeated ; 
but it is most used externally, in the form of ointment (gr. xx to 
lard a troyounce), or dissolved in alcohol, as an application to 
rheumatic and neuralgic parts. 



GELSEMIUM — YELLOW JASMINE. 

The ROOT of Gelsemium Sempervirens {Nat. Ord. Scrophu- 
lariacese), a beautiful climbing plant of our Southern States, 
possesses valuable sedative properties, without nauseating or 
purgative effects, and is employed in febrile and inflammatory 



188 MATERIA MEDICA. 

diseases. It has been found to contain a native acid, which has 
received the name of gelseminic acid, and a peculiar alkaloid, 
termed gelseminia, which is the active principle and is one of 
the most powerful poisons known. The tincture of gelsemium 
(four troyounces of the root to diluted alcohol Oj), is the form 
usually employed, in the dose of 20 to 50 drops. 



ANTIMONII PRuEPARATA — PREPARATIONS OF 
ANTIMONY. 

Antimonii et Potass^ Tartras [Tartrate of Antimony 
and Potassa). This valuable salt, familiarly known as tartar 
emetic, is prepared by boiling water and cream of tartar with 
oxide of antimony. It occurs in colorless, transparent, 
rhombic, octohedron crystals, which become white and opaque 
from efflorescence on exposure to the air. When pure, its 
powder is perfectly white ; but it is to be preferred in the 
crystalline state, as in this form it is less liable to adulteration. 
When dropped into a solution of hydrosulphuric acid, the 
crystals should have an orange-colored deposit formed on them. 
The powder is sometimes adulterated with cream of tartar, 
which may be detected by adding a few drops of a solution of 
carbonate of soda to a boiling solution of the antimonial salt, 
and if the precipitate formed be not redissolved, no bitartrate 
of potash is present. 

Tartar emetic consists of 1 equiv. of tartaric acid, potash, and 
teroxide of antimony, each, with 3, or perhaps 2 equiv. of 
water of crystallization (SbO 3 ,KO,C 8 H 4 O 10 +2HO). It is 
inodorous ; has a nauseous, metallic taste ; is very soluble in 
water ; insoluble in pure alcohol ; and is decomposed by the 
pure alkalies, alkaline carbonates, and the vegetable astrin- 
gents. 

Physiological Effects. — Tartar emetic is a powerful local 
irritant. Applied to the skin, it occasions an eruption of 
pustules, resembling those of variola or ecthyma. When taken 
into the stomach, in full doses, it causes vomiting, purging, 



PREPARATIONS OF ANTIMONY. 189 

griping pains, &c. ; and, in excessive quantity, it acts as an 
irritant poison, and has even produced death : very large doses 
have, however, of late years, been given medicinally with 
entire safety. The proper antidote is tannic acid ; and opium, 
stimulants, and demulcents should be also administered. The 
constitutional effects of tartar emetic, when taken internally, in 
small doses, are an increase in the secretions and exhalations 
generally, especially from the skin ; in somewhat larger doses, 
these effects are accompanied with nausea and vomiting, relax- 
ation of the tissues (particularly the muscular fibres), a feeling 
of great feebleness and exhaustion, and a powerful sedative 
action on the circulation and respiration. 

Medicinal Uses. — Tartar emetic is employed therapeutically 
as an emetic, nauseant, sedative, sudorific, and expectorant, 
and locally as a counter-irritant. As an emetic, it creates 
more nausea and depression than any other substance; and 
hence, while other emetics are to be preferred to it, when our 
object is merely to evacuate the contents of the stomach, with as 
little constitutional disturbance as possible, it is of the greatest 
value, when vomiting is resorted to as a means of making an 
impression on the system, and thereby cheeking the progress 
of disease. As a nauseant, tartar emetic is employed to relax 
the muscular system, in the reduction of dislocations, strangu- 
lated hernia, &c. As a sedative antiphlogistic, in large doses, 
it is a most powerful and valuable remedy in the treatment of 
acute inflammation, with fever, from its combined action in 
reducing the force of the circulation, moderating the heat of 
skin, and promoting diaphoresis. When given in this way, 
at intervals, tartar emetic ceases to produce emesis, and a 
tolerance of the medicine by the system is established. In the 
treatment of pneumonia, it has long been extensively resorted 
to. From gr. \ to gr. J may be given every two hours, in 
gradually increasing doses, until some amelioration of the 
symptoms takes place, when the doses are to be again de- 
creased. As a diaphoretic, it is very useful, in small doses 
(as from gr. J g to gr. \, repeated), in continued fevers, inflam- 
mation from wounds, injuries, &c. ; and as an expectorant, in 



190 MATERIA MEDICA. 

the same doses, it is employed in various pulmonary affections 
with advantage. As a local irritant, it is applied to the skin 
in the form of aqueous solution, ointment, or plaster, in chronic 
diseases of the chest, affections of joints, &c. 

Administration. — The dose of tartar emetic, as an emetic, is 
gr. j or ij, and it is frequently combined with ipecacuanha. 
As a sedative antiphlogistic, gr. \ or J, to gr. j or ij ; as a nau- 
seant, gr. J to J ; and as a diaphoretic and expectorant, gr. Jg 
to J, may be given in solution, and in each case repeated 
every two or three hours. For external use, the ointment 
(unguentum antimonii — 5\j to lard a troyounce) may be em- 
ployed; or the plaster, made by mixing one part of tartar 
emetic with four parts of Burgundy pitch. 

Vinum Antimonii {Antimonial Wine), is a solution of tartar 
emetic (gr. xxxij), in boiling distilled water (f Sj), and sherry 
wine (f§xv). It is employed as an expectorant and sudorific, 
in the dose of from 10 to 30 drops, frequently repeated ; and 
as an emetic for children, in the dose of 30 drops to f5j, re- 
peated every quarter of an hour. 

Antimoxium Sulphuratum ' (Sulphurated Antimony), is 
prepared by boiling the native tersulphuret of antimony with 
a solution of potassa, and adding diluted sulphuric acid to the 
strained solution ; the sulphate of potassa, which is formed, 
being afterwards washed away with hot water. It is a reddish- 
brown, odorless, almost tasteless, insoluble powder, and is 
chemically a mixture of teroxide and tersulphuret of antimony. 
Its effects are analogous to those of tartar emetic ; but it is 
chiefly employed as an alterative in cutaneous affections, secon- 
dary syphilis, &c, usually in conjunction with mercurials. 
Dose, as an alterative, gr. j to iij ; as an emetic, gr. v to xx. 

Axtimonii Oxysulphuretum (Oxysulphuret of Antimony, 
or Kermes Mineral), is another mixture of tersulphuret and 
teroxide of antimony, prepared by boiling tersulphuret with 
an alkaline carbonate or caustic solution. It is an odorless, 
tasteless, brownish-red, insoluble powder, sometimes employed 
as an antiphlogistic in pneumonia ; but it is uncertain in its 
operation, and probably possesses no advantage over tartar 
emetic. Dose, gr. J to gr. ij, or iij. 



PREPARATIONS OF ANTIMONY. 191 

By the addition of an acid to the liquor which remains after 
the precipitation of kermes, an orange-red, odorless, tasteless 
powder called golden sulphur of antimony, is obtained. It is 
a mixture of tersulphuret and teroxide with some free sulphur, 
and acts like kermes, but is weaker. Dose, gr. j to gr. ij, 
or iij. 

PiluloB Antimonii Compositoz (Compound Pills of Antimony), 
sometimes called Plummer's pills, contain equal parts of sul- 
phurated antimony and of calomel, mixed with guaiac and 
molasses. They are used as an alterative in syphilitic, rheu- 
matic, and cutaneous affections. Six grains of the mass con- 
tain a grain of calomel and antimony each. 

Pulvis Antimonialis. — An antimonial powder is prepared in 
imitation of the celebrated James's poivder, by burning sulphu- 
ret of antimony with hartshorn shavings or bone shavings. It 
is a white, gritty, tasteless, odorless powcfeer, consisting of a 
mixture of antimonious acid and phosphate of lime, with some 
teroxide of antimony and a little antimonite of lime. It was 
formerly much employed in fevers ; but it is unequal in its 
operation, owing its activity to the teroxide of antimony present. 
Hence, it has been dismissed from the U. S. Pharmacopoeia. 
In the British Pharmacopoeia, it is now directed to be made by 
mixing one part of oxide of antimony and two parts of precipi- 
tated phosphate of lime. Dose, gr. iij to viij. 

Antimonii Oxidum (Oxide of Antimony) (Sb0 3 ), is prepared 
from the sulphuret, and is a heavy, grayish-white, insoluble 
powder. It has the general therapeutic properties of the anti- 
monials and, though not quite certain in its effects, is believed 
to produce the sedative operation of tartar emetic, with less 
nausea and derangement of the stomach. Dose, 2 or 3 grains 
repeated. 

Antimoniated Hydrogen is a gaseous substance, which has 
lately been employed, with much success, by inhalation, in 
acute bronchitis and pneumonia. It is prepared, by forming 
an alloy of a drachm of pure antimony and twice the quantity 
of pure zinc, which is to be mixed with a drachm of tartar 
emetic or chloride of antimony, and introduced into a bottle 



192 MATERIA MEDICA. 

with a large tubulure ; and from time to time, as the gas is 
wanted, from half a drachm to a drachm of muriatic acid is 
added. Muriatic acid gas is evolved at the same time, but this 
is prevented from reaching the respiratory orifices by closing 
them with a sponge wet with an alkaline solution, which per- 
mits the antimoniated hydrogen to pass. The gas may be 
breathed for five minutes every hour. 



P0TASS2E NITRAS — NITRATE OF POTASSA. 

This salt, commonly called nitre and saltpetre (KO,N0 5 ) 
occurs in both the inorganized and organized kingdoms of 
nature. It is obtained, for medicinal use, principally by the 
purification of the native nitre of India ; and it is also found in 
saltpetre caves in various parts of the United States, associated 
with nitrate of lime, from which it is separated by lixiviation. 
It is artificially produced in several parts of Europe, in nitre 
beds or saltpetre plantations, by bringing together decayed 
organic animal and vegetable matters. And it is manufactured 
sometimes by the double decomposition of nitrate of soda and 
chloride of potassium. Nitre is refined by re-solution and 
crystallization of the crude nitre. As purified for medicinal 
use, it is found in the shops in large, transparent, colorless 
crystals, of the form of six-sided prisms with dihedral summits. 
They have no odor, a sharp, cooling taste, are soluble in water, 
and insoluble in pure alcohol. They have no water of crystal- 
lization, but frequently have a portion of the mother liquid, 
mechanically lodged in the spaces of the crystals, which may 
be driven off by heat, and the salt fused and cast into moulds. 

Physiological Effects. — In excessive doses, nitre may act as 
a fatal poison, producing irritation of the alimentary canal and 
derangement of the nervous system. There is no antidote for 
it ; and cases of poisoning are to be treated by demulcents, opiates, 
&c, after evacuation of the contents of the stomach. In mode- 
rate doses, it is a refrigerant, sedative, diuretic, and diaphoretic, 
and, in large or continued doses, laxative. Its refrigerant 



BOEATE OF SODA. 193 

properties are best seen when the body is morbidly hot, as in 
fevers. When mixed with the blood, after absorption, it pro- 
duces several chemical changes, the most important of which is 
an antiplastic effect, by impeding coagulation. 

Medicinal Uses. — Nitre is a very valuable refrigerant and 
sedative remedy in fevers, inflammations, hemorrhages, &c. 
In fevers it is often prescribed with calomel and tartar emetic, 
under the name of nitrous poivders (nitre gr. x, tartar emetic 
gr. |-, calomel gr. J to J). In large doses, it was given for- 
merly in acute, rheumatism, and this practice has been lately 
revived with success in France. Dose, gr. x to 5ss. From 
5iv to 5vj, are given in 24 hours, in acute rheumatism, and the 
quantity is increased to 5viij, x, or xij. The fumes of paper, 
impregnated with nitre, are used with advantage in spasmodic 
asthma. 



REFRIGERANTS. 
SOD^l BORAS — BORATE OF SODA. 

Borax occurs as a native product in several localities, the 
most important of which for a long time was Thibet, in Asia ; 
it is also made artificially by the direct combination of native 
' boracic acid, (obtained from the lagoons of Tuscany), with soda. 
The supply of the United States is now, however, exclusively 
derived from Borax Lake, in California, about one hundred 
miles north of San Francisco. Borax occurs in the form of 
hexahedral prismatic crystals, terminated by triangular pyra- 
mids, of a sweetish alkaline taste, and an alkaline reaction. 
It is a biborate of soda (NaO,2B0 3 ), with 10 eq. of water of 
crystallization, in the prismatic form, and 5 eq. when it occurs 
in the octohedral form. It is soluble in water, and slowly 
effloresces, and has the property of rendering cream of tartar 
very soluble in water. 

Effects and Uses. — Borax is a mild refrigerant and diuretic, 
and has had emmenagogue virtues attributed to it. Dose, gr. 
xxx. It has been given in infantile diarrhoea as an enema, 

13 



194 MATERIA MEDIC A. 

i 

and is used externally in cutaneous affections, especially as a 
detergent in aphthous affections of the mouth in children, 
mixed with equal parts of sugar. Mel sodce boratis is made 
by mixing sixty grains of borax with a troyounce of clarified 
honey. 



POTASS.^ CITEAS — CITRATE OF POTASSA. 

This salt is made by saturating a solution of citric acid 
with bicarbonate of potassa, and evaporating to dryness. 
It is white, granular, deliquescent, and very soluble in water 
(3KO,C 12 H 5 O n ). It is an excellent refrigerant diaphoretic, 
much employed in febrile affections. Dose, gr. xx-xxv ; 5vj 
are usually dissolved in water Oss, and f§ss of the solution is 
administered every hour or two. . 

Liquor Potasses Citratis [Solution of the Citrate of Potassa) is 
made by dissolving half a troyounce of citric acid and 330 
grains of bicarbonate of potassa in half a pint of water — 
dose, f oss. 

Mistura Potassce Citratis [Mixture of Citrate of Potassa, or 
Neutral Mixture), is made by saturating fresh lemon-juice 
with bicarbonate of potassa : or, when the lemon-juice cannot 
be had, a solution of citric acid, flavored with oil of lemons, 
may be used as a substitute. This preparation contains some 
free carbonic acid, which renders it more grateful to an 
irritable stomach than the ordinary solutions of the citrate. 
Under the name of effervescing draught, the citrate of potassa 
is often prepared extemporaneously and given in the state of 
effervescence. 



LIQUOR AMMONIA ACETATIS — SOLUTION OF ACE- 
TATE OF AMMONIA. 

This solution, termed also Spiritus Minder eri, or Spirit of 
Mindererus. is made by saturating diluted acetic acid with 
carbonate of ammonia, and is a solution of the acetate of 



VEGETABLE ACIDS. 195 

ammonia (NH 4 0,C 4 H 3 3 ). When pure, it is a colorless liquid, 
with a saline taste. In small doses, it is refrigerant; in 
larger doses, diaphoretic, diuretic, and perhaps resolvent. It 
is employed in febrile and inflammatory affections, sometimes 
in conjunction with nitre or tartar emetic, sometimes with 
camphor and opium. Dose, fgss to fgj, every two, three, or 
four hours, in sweetened water. 



SPIRITUS iETHERIS NITROSI — SPIRIT OF NITROUS 

ETHER. 

This preparation, commonly known as Sweet Spirit of Nitre, 
is a solution of nitrous ether in alcohol. It is obtained by 
distilling nitric acid with stronger alcohol and carbonate of 
potassa, and is a mixture, in variable proportions, of nitrous 
ether (C 4 H 5 0,N0 3 ) and alcohol. It is a colorless, volatile, 
inflammable liquid, soluble in water and alcohol, of a fragrant, 
ethereal odor, and a pungent, aromatic, sweetish, acidulous 
taste. 

Effects and Uses. — Sweet Spirit of Nitre is antispasmodic, 
refrigerant, diaphoretic, and diuretic. It is much used in 
febrile affections, and, from its diuretic properties, is often 
combined with other diuretics in the treatment of dropsies. 
Dose, f5ss to f5j, frequently repeated. 



ACIDA VEGETABILIA — VEGETABLE ACIDS. 

The vegetable acids are refrigerant, and, when properly 
diluted, form useful drinks in fevers, &c. Those chiefly em- 
ployed are acidum aceticum (acetic acid), acidum citricum (citric 
acid), and acidum tartaricum {tartaric acid). Acetic Acid 
(C 4 H 3 3 ) is employed only in the form of diluted acetic acid 
(one part of strong acid to seven parts of distilled water), or 
vinegar (acetum). Externally, strong acetic acid is employed 
as an escharotic to remove warts, in the cure of lupus, &c. It 
is less used internally as a refrigerant than citric acid, from its 



196 MATERIA MEDICA. 

liability to produce colic and diarrhoea, except in typhus, scarlet, 
and other malignant fevers, owing to its supposed possession 
of antiseptic virtues. Spongings with vinegar and water are 
useful to relieve the heat of skin in fevers, and the vapor is 
grateful to the sick. The dose of vinegar is f5j-iv. Citric 
Acid may be agreeably administered in the juice of lemons, 
limes, sour oranges, and tamarinds. When these cannot be ob- 
tained, a solution of citric acid (3j to water Oj) may be sub- 
stituted. Citric acid is manufactured from lemon or lime juice, 
by saturating it with carbonate of lime, and afterwards decom- 
posing the citrate of lime, which is formed, by the addition of 
sulphuric acid. It occurs in colorless crystals (C 12 H 5 O n 4 4HO), 
having the form of rhomboidal prisms with dihedral summits, 
freely soluble in water, and soluble in alcohol ; 5ixss, added to 
distilled water Oj, form a solution of the average strength of 
lemon-juice. In the dose of f§j every hour or two, lemon-juice, 
limonis suceus (the juice of the fruit of Citrus Limonum), has 
been employed with much success in acute rheumatism and gout, 
and, though an uncertain remedy, is occasionally of undoubted 
efficacy. Properly diluted and mixed with sugar, it forms the 
delightful refrigerant known as lemonade. Lemon-juice is the 
best known remedy for scurvy. Syrup of citric acid consists of 
20 grains of powdered citric acid and four minims of oil of lemon 
rubbed up with a fluidounce of syrup, and afterwards dissolved 
in a pint and fifteen fluidounces more of syrup, at a gentle 
heat. Lemon syrup, which is pleasanter, is made by dissolving 
48 troyounces of sugar in a pint of strained lemon-juice mixed 
with a pint of water, at a gentle heat. Tartaric Acid is 
the acid of grapes, and is extracted from tartar, or crude 
cream of tartar. It is a white crystallized solid, in the form 
of irregular six-sided prisms (C 8 H 4 O 10 +2HO), and is found in 
the shops as a fine, white powder. It is soluble in water and 
alcohol. Being cheaper than citric acid, it may be used as a 
substitute for that acid. It is employed in making soda and 
Seidlitz powders. 



NUX VOMICA. 197 



ORDER VIII. — SPINANTS. 

Under the term, Spinants or Spastics, are comprised medi- 
cines which are employed to excite muscular contraction. To 
this class belong vegetable substances containing the alkaloids 
strychnia and brucia, which are employed therapeutically in 
torpid or paralytic conditions of the muscular system — and 
ergot, which is used to excite muscular contractions of the 
uterus. 



NUX VOMICA. 

Strychnos Nux vomica, or Poison-Nut (Nat. Ord. Apocy- 
naceae), is a middling-sized tree of the coast of Coromandel 
and other parts of India, which bears a round, smooth berry, 
the size of a pretty large apple, of a rich orange color, and 
containing numerous seeds embedded in a juicy pulp. The 
seeds are the officinal portion ; but the bark also is poisonous, 
and is known as false angustura bark, from its having been 
confounded with angustura bark. The seeds are round, pel- 
tate, less than an inch in diameter, nearly flat, or convex on 
one side and concave on the other, and surrounded by a nar- 
row annular stria. They have two coats : a simple, fibrous, 
outer coat, covered with short, silky hairs, of a gray or yel- 
lowish color, and a very thin inner coat, which envelopes the 
nucleus or kernel. This is hard, horny, of a whitish or yel- 
lowish color, and of very difficult pulverization. The seeds 
have no odor, but an intensely bitter taste, which is stronger in 
the kernel than in the investing membrane. They impart their 
virtues to water, but more readily to diluted alcohol, and con- 
tain two active alkaloid principles, strychnia (which is officinal), 
and brucia, both of which exist in combination with an acid 
called strychnic, or igasuric ; another alkaloid, termed igasuria, 
much more soluble in water than the two first named, has been 
lately extracted from nux vomica. 

Physiological Effects. — In very small and repeated doses, 



198 MATERIA MEDICA. 

nux vomica has a tonic and diuretic effect, and sometimes ope- 
rates slightly on the bowels and skin. In somewhat larger 
doses, the stomach is often disturbed ; and in still larger doses, 
the muscular system becomes disordered. A sense of weight 
and weakness in the limbs, and increased sensibility to exter- 
nal impressions of all kinds, manifest themselves, with depres- 
sion of spirits and anxiety ; the limbs tremble, and slight con- 
vulsive movements of the muscles appear. If the medicine be 
continued, convulsive paroxysms of the whole muscular .system 
ensue, with erotic desires, painful sensations in the skin, and 
occasionally eruptions : the pulse is not much affected. In 
paralytic patients, the effects of the medicine are principally 
observed in the paralyzed parts. When taken" in excessive 
doses, it produces tetanus, asphyxia, and death. There is no 
chemical antidote, unless, perhaps, tannic acid, and the iodu- 
retted iodide of potassium ; after evacuating the stomach, 
opium, conium, ether, chloroform, extract of Indian hemp, 
camphor, tobacco, calabar bean, &c, may be exhibited, as phy- 
siological antidotes. 

Medicinal Uses. — This medicine is our chief resource in 
torpid or paralytic conditions of the motor or sensitive nerves, 
or of the muscular fibre. When, however, paralysis is the 
result of inflammation of the nervous centres, it is injurious, 
and accelerates organic changes. It is most beneficial in those 
forms of paralysis which are independent of structural lesion, 
as lead palsy or paralysis from drunkenness. In paralysis, 
arising from cerebral hemorrhage, — after the absorption of the 
effused blood, and the paralysis remains, as it were from habit, — 
the cautious employment of nux vomica is often attended with 
advantage. In amaurosis, free from cerebral complication, it 
is sometimes useful ; and it is occasionally serviceable in other 
nervous affections. It has also been found beneficial in chorea, 
constipation, dysentery, cholera, diarrhoea, impotence, inconti- 
nence of urine, and spermatorrhoea ; and in small doses, it has 
been used as a general tonic, and as a stomachic in dys- 
pepsia. 

Administration. — Dose of the powder, gr. ij or iij, in pill, 



IGNATIA. 199 

several times a day, and increased till an effect is produced ; 
of the extract (alcoholic), gr. J to gr. j, to be repeated and 
increased; of the tincture (eight troyounces to alcohol Oij), 
gtt. v to xx, and this is sometimes used as an embrocation to 
paralyzed parts. 

Strychnia (C^H^N^) is obtained by the following 
process : Nux vomica is digested and boiled in water 
acidulated with muriatic acid, and the resulting muriate of 
strychnia and brucia is decomposed by lime. The strychnia 
is separated from brucia and impurities, by boiling alcohol, 
from which it is deposited when cool, the brucia being left in 
solution. It is then converted into a sulphate by the addition 
of diluted sulphuric acid, next decolorized by animal charcoal, 
and again precipitated by solution of ammonia. Thus obtained, 
it occurs as a white powder, (but may be made to crystallize in 
the form of white, brilliant, rhombic prisms), of an intensely 
bitter taste, almost insoluble in water, slightly soluble in cold 
alcohol, but readily soluble in boiling alcohol. The usual test 
for strychnia is the bichromate of potassa, which, added to a 
solution of strychnia in concentrated sulphuric acid, produces a 
violet color, which after a time changes to wine-red, and then 
to reddish-yellow. A still more delicate test is a solution of 
permanganate of potassa (gr. 1) in sulphuric acicl (grs. 2000). 
The effects of strychnia are similar to those of mix vomica, but 
more violent ; its local action is that of an irritant. It is em- 
ployed for the same purposes as nux vomica, and should be 
given in very minute doses, as gr. ^ to ^ E to begin with, to be 
gradually increased and repeated. The salts of strychnia may 
be also employed in the same doses, but they are more soluble, 
and therefore more active; the sulphate is officinal. For ender- 
mic use, gr. J of strychnia may be used. 



IGNATIA. 

The SEED of Strychnos Ignatia, or St. Ignatius' Bean, a tree 
of the Philippine Islands, contains a large proportion of strych- 



200 MATERIA MEDICA. 

nia, and possesses medicinal properties analogous to those of 
mix vomica. It is used in this country in the form of alcoholic 
extract, which may be given to fulfil the same remedial indica- 
tions as extract of nux vomica, in the dose of half a grain to a 
grain, three times a day. 

Toxicodendron {Poison-Oak). The leaves of Rhus Toxi- 
codendron, or Poison-Oak (Nat. Ord. Anacardiaceae), an indi- 
genous shrub from one to three feet high, and other species of 
Rhus, possess properties somewhat analogous to those of nux 
vomica, and have been employed with success in paralysis. 
They contain a peculiar acid principle (toxic odendric acid), to 
which their poisonous and medicinal activity is due. Dose, gr. 
j to gr. iij, or more, to be repeated and increased. 



EEGOTA — ERGOT. 

Ergot is incorrectly defined by the U. S. Pharmacopoeia to 
be the diseased seed of Secale cereale, or Rye {Nat. Ord. 
Graminaceae). The disease was formerly considered to be the 
result of the presence of a parasitical fungus — but it is now 
known that ergot is really a fungus (Claviceps purpurea), 
growing from the diseased ovary of the plant. Its predisposing 
cause is unknown, and it is not peculiar to rye, many other 
grasses being subject to it, as abortion in grazing animals has 
been frequently produced by their eating grasses affected with 
ergot. The ergot usually projects out of the glum or husk of 
the plant beyond the ordinary outline of the spike or ear. It 
should not be collected until some days after it has begun to 
form, as it is thought not to possess full activity until about 
the sixth day of its formation. As found in the shops, it con- 
sists of cylindrical or somewhat prismatical tapering grains, 
curved like the spur of a cock, of a purplish color externally, 
and of a yellowish or grayish-white color within. Its smell is 
peculiar and nauseous ; its taste is at first faint, but' becomes 
bitterish, acrid, and disagreeable. It yields its virtues to 



ERGOT. 201 

water and alcohol, and does not keep well, being liable to the 
attacks of a minute worm. 

Numerous analyses have been made of ergot, but there is 
still uncertainty as regards its active principles. The oil of ergot 
is not now believed to be, when pure, the medicinal constituent. 
A volatile alkoloid, termed secalia (identical with prophylamia,* 
the odorous principle of pickled herring), exists in ergot ; and, 
lately, two fixed alkaloids (ergotina and ecbolina), have been 
discovered, in combination with an acid termed ergotic. Ecbo- 
lina is believed to be the principle which causes uterine con- 
traction, half a grain of it having been found to produce the 
effect of 30 grains of ergot. 

Physiological Effects. — The effects of ergot, in medicinal 
doses, are unimportant on the male system. On the female, 
it excites powerful contraction of the uterus. After labor has 
commenced, in ten or twenty minutes from its administration, 
it increases the violence, frequency, and continuance of labor 
pains, which usually never cease until the child is born. 
Administered before labor, it frequently originates the process, 
though its effects in this respect are less constant. And even 
on the unimpregnated uterus, it produces painful contractions, 
and evinces an influence over morbid conditions of the organ, 
by checking uterine hemorrhage, and expelling polypi. In 
large doses, it produces vomiting, purging, and a marked 
sedative effect on the circulation, and in excessive quantity^ it 
acts as an acro-narcotic poison on both sexes. When it is used 
for a length of time as an article of food, it produces a 
peculiar morbid condition, termed ergotism, which assumes two 
forms, — one attended with convulsions, the other with dry 
gangrene of the limbs. 

Medicinal Uses. — The chief employment of ergot is to pro- 
mote the action of the uterus in parturition, when its expulsa- 
tory efforts are feeble and inefficient. It is, however, admissi- 
ble, only when there is a proper conformation of the pelvis and 
soft parts, when the os uteri, vagina, and os externum are 

* Prophylamia (C 6 H 9 N) has been used in rheumatism and neuralgia, in 
doses of two drops in some aromatic water, every two hours. 



202 MATERIA MEDICA. 

dilated, or readily dilatable, and when the presentation of the 
child is such as to offer no great mechanical impediment to 
delivery. It is also useful — when from any cause it is import- 
ant to accelerate delivery; in women subject to. flooding, given 
just before delivery ; to promote the expulsion of the placenta, 
when it is retained from a want of contraction of the uterus ; 
to expel clots, hydatids, polypi, &c. : to restrain uterine 
hemorrhage, whether puerperal or non-puerperal; to excite 
and promote abortion, &c. ; and sometimes as a styptic. It 
has been employed, too, in gonorrhoea, dysmenorrhcea, paraly- 
sis of the bladder, purpura, and several other diseases. By 
many, ergot is believed to exercise a dangerous sedative influ- 
ence on the child during labor, and its use may occasionally 
produce foetal death, which a timely resort to the forceps would 
have prevented. 

Administration. — Dose, of the poivder, 3j, every twenty 
minutes, till its effects are produced, or three doses are taken ; 
of the wine, vinum ergotce (two troy ounces to sherry wine Oj), 
f5j to f5ij, repeated as above. The fluid extract (made with 
diluted alcohol and acetic acid), is the best preparation, (a 
fluidounce representing a troy ounce of ergot) — dose, 20 to 30 
drops. 

Gossypii Radix {Cotton Root). The root of Gossypium 
herbaceum, the well-known cotton plant, is said by Southern 
physicians to possess decided influence in exciting uterine con- 
tractions. A decoction (made by boiling four troyounces of 
the inner bark of the root in a quart of water to a pint), has 
been used in doses of a wineglassful repeated. Cotton is a 
useful application to burns, and parts affected with erysipelas 
and rheumatism. 



EMETICS. 203 

CLASS II.— ECCRITICS. 
ORDER I. EMETICS. 

Emetics (from ejueu, I vomit), are medicines which are 
employed to promote vomiting ; when they are used merely to 
excite nausea, they are termed nauseants. When an emetic is 
administered, usually within fifteen or twenty minutes after- 
wards, a feeling of nausea, relaxation, and faintness is experi- 
enced, with coolness and moisture of the skin, and a small, 
feeble, irregular pulse. These symptoms increase, till the 
contents of the stomach are ejected. During the act of 
vomiting, the face becomes flushed, the pulse is full and 
frequent, and the temperature of the body is increased. 
After vomiting is over, the skin is moist, the pulse soft and 
feeble, the patient becomes languid and drowsy, and, under 
peculiar circumstances, alarming and even fatal syncope has 
been induced. Vomiting is a reflex spinal act. Dr. Mar- 
shall Hall gives the following summary of its mechanism: 
" During the act of vomiting, 1, the larynx is closed ; 2, the 
cardia is opened ; and 3, all the muscles of expiration are 
called into action ; but 4, actual expiration being prevented 
by the closure of the larynx, the force of the effort is ex- 
pended upon the stomach, the cardia being open, and vomiting 
is effected." 

Susceptibility to the action of emetics differs in different in- 
dividuals and in different diseases. In fevers, and where gas- 
tric irritation is present, their influence is increased ; and, on 
the other hand, when the brain is oppressed by disease or by 
narcotic medicines, the stomach is exceedingly insensible to 
their action. 

Emetics are employed therapeutically : 1, to evacuate the 
stomach, for the purpose of removing poisons, undigested food, 
&c. ; and with this view, the emetics should be selected which 
occasion least nausea and distress ; 2, to expel foreign bodies 
lodged in the throat or oesophagus ; 3, to excite nausea, and 
thereby depress the vascular and muscular systems ; 4, to re- 



204 MATERIA MEDICA. 

lieve spasm, as in spasmodic croup ; 5, to promote secretion and 
excretion, &c. ; and 6, sometimes, to break up a train of morbid 
association, by giving a shock to the system, as in the forming 
stage of certain fevers, as typhus and scarlatina, and of delirium 
tremens. They are improper in congestion of the brain, preg- 
nancy, hernia, &c. The act of emesis is promoted by the free 
use of tepid drinks ; excessive vomiting may be checked by de- 
mulcents, opiates, counter-irritation to the stomach, &c. 



VEGETABLE EMETICS. 
IPECACUANHA. 

Ipecacuanha is the root of Oephaelis Ipecacuanha (Nat. 
Ord. Cinchonacese), a small shrubby perennial plant of Brazil, 
where it grows to the height of about five or six inches. The 
roots, as met with in the shops, are in pieces about the size of 
a quill, several inches long, of an irregular, twisted, contorted 
shape, with numerous circular rings or rugae, from which they 
have been termed annulated. When broken, they are seen to 
consist of two distinct parts, — a thin ligneous axis or centre, 
which is nearly inert, and a thick cortical layer, which has an 
herbaceous, acrid, rather bitter taste, and a slightly nauseous 
odor. A distinction is made of brown, red, and gray ipecacu- 
anha, from differences in the color of the epidermis, but they 
are all derived from the same plant, and are the same in pro- 
perties and composition ; the brown is the most common variety 
in our market. The powder is of a light grayish-fawn color, 
and has a peculiar nauseous odor, which in some persons excites 
violent sneezing, in others dyspnoea. Ipecacuanha imparts its 
virtues to both water and alcohol, but they are injured by de- 
coction. Its emetic property depends on the presence of a 
peculiar alkaline principle,, termed emetia (C 60 H 44 N 2 O 16 ), a 
whitish, inodorous, slightly bitter substance, sparingly soluble 
in water and ether, and very soluble in concentrated alcohol 
and chloroform. It produces vomiting in the dose of gr. \, 
and in overdoses may occasion dangerous and even fatal symp- 



IPECACUANHA. 205 

toms. Occasionally, a sophisticated root, that of Psychotria 
emetica, derived from New Granada, is found in the markets ; 
this is not cumulated, but longitudinally striated, and contain- 
ing less than half the quantity of emetic, found in the genuine 
root (10J per cent.). 

Effects and Uses. — In full doses, ipecacuanha is a mild and 
certain emetic, well adapted to the treatment of spasmodic 
croup in children, and to all cases where a simple evacuation of 
the stomach is desired. In smaller doses, it produces nausea, 
depression of the pulse, expectoration, and diaphoresis, and 
with these views it is employed in the treatment of pulmonary 
affections, dysentery, and inflammatory disorders generally. 
In still smaller doses, it is useful as a tonic and stomachic. 
Ipecacuanha was first introduced as a remedy in dysentery, 
and, after being for a time laid aside, has been again recently 
used with marked success. 

Administration. — Dose, as an emetic, gr. xv to gr. xx, often 
combined with a grain of tartar emetic ; as a nanseant, gr. ss 
to gr. ij, three or four times a day ; as an expectorant or dia- 
phoretic, gr. J to gr. J, repeated ; as a tonic, gr. y 1 ^, repeated. 
Vinum Ipecacuanha? (a troyounce to sherry wine Oj) — dose, 
as an emetic, f Sss, as an expectorant and diaphoretic, VC\x to 
xxx ; the fluid extract (made with acetic acid, alcohol, and 
water), is used as an addendum to expectorant and diaphoretic 
mixtures, a fluidounce representing an ounce of the root ; one 
part of fluid extract, mixed with fifteen parts of simple syrup, 
makes Syrupus Ipecacuanha?, an excellent preparation for 
children — fgj containing gr. xxx of ipecacuanha; for a child a 
year or two old, f5ss-j, may be given as an emetic, and v-xx 
drops, as an expectorant. Pulvis Ipecacuanha? Compositus, 
Compound powder of Ipecacuanha, or Dover's Poivder (see 
Opium, p. 49). Troches of Ipecacuanha contain also arrow- 
root, sugar, and mucilage, of tragacanth (ipecacuanha half a 
troyounce, arrow-root four troyounces, sugar fourteen troy- 
ounces, made into a mass with mucilage of tragacanth, which 
is to be divided into troches each weighing ten grains). 



206 MATERIA MEDICA. 

SANGUINARIA — BLOODROOT. 

The rhizoma of Sanguinaria Canadensis, or Bloodroot (Nat. 
Ord. Papaveraceas), a small indigenous plant, with radical, 
cordate, lobate leaves, and a handsome, white, eight-petalled 

Fig. 18. 




flower, which appears in early spring — is usually classed with 
emetics. When dried, it is in flattened pieces, much wrinkled 
and contorted, of a reddish-brown color, with a faint narcotic 
odor, and a bitterish, very acrid taste. It yields its virtues to 
water and alcohol, and loses them rapidly by keeping. An 
active alkaline principle, sanguinarina (C 34 H 15 N0 8 ), has been 



IPECACUANHA SPURGE. 



207 



obtained from it, which possesses the properties of the root, 
and two other alkaloids have been discovered in it. 

Effects and Uses. — Bloodroot is an acrid emetic, and in 
large doses, an acro-narcotic poison. Locally, it acts as an 
irritant, and upon fungous surfaces as an escharotic. It is not 
much used as an . emetic ; but is occasionally employed with 
this view, in croup and diphtheria, or as a nauseant, in pulmonary 
affections. Dose, as an emetic, gr. x to xx, in pill ; or in infu- 
sion (half a troy ounce to boiling water Oj), of which fgss is the 
dose. Tincture (four troyounces to diluted alcohol Oij) — 
dose, as an emetic, f5iij or iv ; as an expectorant, 30 to 
60 drops. It is also employed externally, dissolved in vinegar. 



EUPHORBIA COROLLATA — LARGE FLOWERING SPURGE. 

Fig. 19. 




Euphorbia Ipecacuanha (Ipecacuanha Spurge). The roots 



208 MATERIA MEDICA. 

of these indigenous plants (Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacese), possess 
emetic properties ; but they are apt to operate on the bowels, 
and, in overdoses, prove extremely violent. Dose, gr. x to xv. 



GILLENIA. 

Gillenia trifoliata, Indian Physic, or American Ipecacuanha 
(Nat Ord. Rosacea), is an indigenous herbaceous plant, with 
a perennial root, consisting of a number of fibres, arising from 
a tuber ; one or more stems, two or three feet high, of a red- 
dish-brown color ; trifoliate leaves ; and white flowers, with a 
tinge of red. West of the Allegheny Mountains, another 
species, G. stipulacea, is found, which is identical with the tri- 
foliata in its properties, and is distinguished from it by having 
its lower leaves pinnatifid. The officinal portion of both is the 
root. As found in the shops, it consists of pieces not thicker 
than a quill, wrinkled, of a reddish-brown color, and composed 
of an easily separable and pulverizable cortical portion, and a 
comparatively inert internal ligneous cord, which should be 
rejected. The bark has a feeble odor, and a nauseous, bitter 
taste, and makes a light-brownish powder. 

^Effects and Uses. — Gillenia is a safe and efficacious emetic, 
resembling ipecacuanha in its action, and, like it, in small 
doses proves a useful diaphoretic, expectorant, tonic, &c. 
Dose, as an emetic, gr. xxx ; as an expectorant or diaphoretic, 
gr. ij to iv ; and as a tonic, gr. J. 

Sinapis (Mustard). The powdered seeds of Sinapis nigra 
and Sinapis alba (Nat Ord. Brassicacese), in doses of from a 
teaspoonful to a tablespoonful, are very useful emetics, par- 
ticularly in atonic conditions of the stomach. 

Tobacco and Lobelia act as emetics in large doses, but their 
employment is attended with danger, owing to the great pros- 
tration which they produce (see pp. 60, 62). Squill also pos- 
sesses emetic powers, but it is too irritating for use in this 
respect. 



CATHARTICS. 209 



MINERAL EMETICS. 



Tartar Emetic. Dose, gr. j or gr. ij (see p. 188). 
Sulphate of Zinc. Dose, gr. x to gr. xx (see p. 133). 
Sulphate of Copper. Dose, gr. iij to gr. v (see p. 132). 
Alum. Dose, a teaspoonful (see p. 162). 



ORDER II. — CATHARTICS. 

Cathartics (from Kadaipu, I purge), termed also purgatives, are 
medicines which produce evacuations from the bowels. Some 
operate by increasing the peristaltic motion of the intestines ; 
others stimulate the mucous follicles and exhalants, and occa- 
sion watery evacuations, whence they are termed hydragogues. 
The more violent of the hydragogues, if given in overdoses, 
produce inflammation of the alimentary canal, characterized 
by violent vomiting and purging, abdominal pain and tender- 
ness, cold extremities, and sinking pulse. From their activity, 
they are denominated drastics. Different cathartics affect dif- 
ferent parts of the alimentary canal unequally, some acting 
more particularly on the upper portion, some on the lower, 
and others affecting all parts equally. Mercurial prepara- 
tions purge chiefly by inducing a flow of bile from the 
liver. 

Cathartics may be arranged into five groups : 1. Laxatives, 
which gently evacuate the contents of the bowels, without 
causing any obvious irritation, or affecting the general system. 
2. Saline cathartics, which increase both the peristaltic action 
of the bowels and the effusion of fluids from the mucous sur- 
face, but are devoid of any stimulant action on the general 
system, and are therefore adapted to the treatment of febrile 
and inflammatory cases. 3. Mild acrid cathartics, which are 
acrid and stimulant, but not sufficiently violent in their local 
action to cause inflammation. 4. Drastics, comprising the 
more powerful and irritating cathartics, which, in large doses,, 
act as acrid poisons. 5. Mercurial cathartics. 

14 



210 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Cathartics are employed therapeutically, — 1. To evacuate 
the bowels in constipation, and remove noxious matters, as 
retained feces, undigested food, morbid secretions, worms, 
poisons, &c. 2. To relieve inflammation, congestion, and 
plethora, by the depletion of the bloodvessels, which results 
from increased secretion and exhalation from the gastrointes- 
tinal canal. 3. To promote absorption. 4. To affect remote 
organs, particularly the brain, through the agency of revul- 
sion and counter-irritation. 5. To stimulate the secretion of 
the liver and pancreas, by irritating the orifice of the ductus 
communis choledochus. 6. To restore the catamenia, by the 
irritating or stimulating influence which they exert on the pel- 
vic vessels. The more active cathartics are contra-indicated in 
cases of inflammation or ulceration of the gastro-intestinal 
mucous membrane, peritonitis, the advanced stages of typhoid 
fever, pregnancy, &c. 

The operation of cathartics is promoted by the addition of 
small doses of emetics, and of the bitters. By combining those 
which act upon different portions of the alimentary canal, their 
operation is rendered less irritant, without any diminution of 
purgative efficiency. The griping and nauseating tendency of 
the drastic cathartics may be corrected by the addition of aro- 
matics ; carbonic acid water is a grateful vehicle for adminis- 
tering the saline preparations. Cathartics operate most 
speedily and favorably when given on an empty stomach, and 
susceptibility to their action is diminished during sleep, and 
increased by exercise. Mild diluent beverages promote their 
operation. In the event of hypercatharsis, opium should be 
administered by the mouth or rectum. 

LAXATIVES. 

Several articles of diet have a laxative operation on the 
bowels, and are useful in cases of habitual costiveness, as most 
of the ripe and dried fruits, — particularly tamarinds, peaches, 
apples, raisins, figs, and prunes, — West India molasses, honey, 
oatmeal, bran, &c. 






MANNA. 211 

The following medicinal substances are usually arranged 
under the head of laxatives, and are employed in cases 
where we wish to open the bowels with the least possible 
irritation, — as in children and pregnant women, in inflam- 
mations or surgical operations about the abdomen and pelvis, 
in typhoid fever, hernia, piles, affections of the rectum or 
womb, &c. 



MANNA. 

Manna is the concrete juice, in flakes, of Fraxinus ornus, 
and of Fraxinus rotundifolia (Nat. Ord. Oleacese), small trees 
of Sicily and Southern Italy. It is obtained from incisions 
into the stems of the trees. The best kind is produced during 
the height of the season, when the juice flows vigorously, and 
from the upper stems, where it is less fatty. It is called flake 
manna, or manna cannulata, and consists of pieces from one to 
six inches long, one to two inches wide, and from half an inch 
to an inch thick, of irregular form, but more or less stalactitic, 
hollowed out on one side (from the shape of the tree or sub- 
stance on which they are concreted), of a white or yellowish- 
white color, an odor like that of honey, and a sweet, after- 
wards rather acrid taste. A commoner manna, called common 
manna, or manna in sorts, is obtained from incisions later in 
the season, and from the lower stems. It occurs in small 
pieces, which seldom exceed an inch in length, and are softer, 
more viscid, and darker than the flake manna. A still inferior 
variety is termed fat manna, and consists of small, soft, viscid 
fragments, of a dirty, yellowish-brown color, mixed with a few 
pieces of the flake manna. Manna is soluble in both water 
and alcohol, and contains a white, crystalline, saccharine prin- 
ciple, termed mannite, (found also in mushrooms, the olive tree, 
and other plants,) some sugar, and a resin, to which it proba- 
bly owes most of its purgative effect. 

Effects and Uses. — In moderate doses, manna is nutritive ; 
in larger, mildly laxative. It is principally given to children, 
to whom its sweet taste renders it acceptable ; and it is some 



212 MATERIA MEDICA. 

times combined with the more active cathartics. It may be 
taken in substance, or dissolved in warm milk or water. Dose 
for an adult, gj to gij ; for children, 5j to 5iij- 



CASSIA FISTULA — PURGING CASSIA. 
/ 

This is the fruit of Cassia Fistula {Nat. Ord. Fabacese), a 
large tree of Egypt and the East Indies, now naturalized in 
the West Indies and South America. It consists of long, 
woody, dark-brown pods, about an inch in diameter, and nearly 
two feet in length, which contain numerous seeds imbedded in 
a soft black pulp. The pulp is the part used, and has a faint, 
nauseous odor, and a sweet, rather pleasant, mucilaginous 
taste. It is, in small doses, a mild, agreeable laxative, but its 
chief use is as an ingredient in the Confection of Senna. Dose, 
5j to gj. 

Oleum Oliv^e {Olive Oil). The well-known oil obtained 
from the fruit of Olea Europsea, or Olive Tree {Nat. Ord. 
Oleaceae), is nutritive, demulcent, emollient, and laxative. It 
is frequently prescribed as a constituent of laxative enemata. 

Oleum Amygdala Dulcis {Oil of Siveet Almond), is used 
for the same purposes as olive oil. 

OLEUM RICIXI CASTOR OIL. 

Castor oil is the oil obtained from the seeds of Ricinus 
communis, or Palma Christi {Nat. Ord. Euphorbiacese), a small 
perennial tree of India, now naturalized in many warm climates, 
and cultivated extensively in the United States. In this coun- 
try, it is an annual plant, about five or six feet in height, with 
round, thick-jointed, furrowed stems, of a purplish color above ; 
large peltato-palmate leaves, divided into seven or nine seg- 
ments, on long round footstalks ; and prickly, three-celled cap- 
sules, with a seed in each cell. The seeds are ovate, about the 
size of a small bean, and of a gray color, marbled with reddish- 



CASTOR OIL. 213 

brown spots and stripes. They possess considerable acridity, 
and, in large quantities, have produced death. They consist 
of a thin outer pellicle, an inner, hard, blackish shell — both of 
which are inert — and a white, oleaginous kernel, which contains 
the acrid principle. 

Castor oil is obtained by expression, by decoction, and by 
the agency of alcohol. The first method is the best, and is 
that which is pursued in this country, where large quantities 
are made both for home consumption and exportation ; heat 
should not be employed in preparing it, as it renders it, 
rancid. Thus procured, it is nearly colorless, or of a pale- 
yellow color, of a thick viscid consistence, a faint, unpleasant 
odor, and a mild, nauseous taste, and becomes rancid and 
thick by exposure to the air. It is not soluble in water, but is 
extremely soluble in alcohol, readily so in ether, and forms 
soaps with alkalies. Its composition is not well understood : 
its constituents would seem to be mainly ricinolein, and a little 
stearin and palmitin. 

Effects and Uses. — Castor oil is a mild and tolerably certain 
laxative, operating, when pjire, without uneasiness in the 
bowels. It is admirably adapted to all cases where a free 
evacuation of the bowels is desired, without abdominal irri- 
tation, as in dysentery, pregnancy, typhoid fever, &c, and 
is an excellent purgative for children. The leaves are said 
to possess galactagogue properties, and are applied to the 
breasts, in the form of decoction, to induce the secretion of 
milk. 

Administration. — For adults the dose is f Sss to f 5J ; for 
children f5j to f§ss. To cover its unpleasant flavor, it is 
sometimes taken floating on spirit, coffee, mint-water, com- 
pound spirit of ether, &c, or made into an emulsion, or 
mixed with the froth of porter, or a little oil of bitter 

almonds. 

• 

Flaxseed Oil and Melted Butter are laxative in the 

same doses as castor oil. 



214 MATERIA MEDICA. 



SULPHUR. 



Sulphur exists in both kingdoms of nature. It is procured 
by the purification of native sulphur, and by the decomposition 
of the native sulphurets. The sulphur of commerce is gene- 
rally obtained in the former way, chiefly from Sicily, and is 
termed crude sulphur ; it comes also from Romagna in Italy, 
and from California, and very recently, considerable deposits 
of sulphur have been found in the island of Saba, one of the 
Dutch West Indies. After importation, it is purified by subli- 
mation, and is known as sublimed sulphur — sulphur subli- 
matum. It is sometimes sublimed in the form of an impalpable 
powder, when it is called the flowers of sulphur. Sometimes it 
is cast in wooden moulds and forms the roll sulphur or brim- 
stone of commerce. Sublimed sulphur contains more or less 
sulphuric acid, and for medicinal use, it is further purified by 
washing, when it constitutes the Sulphur Lotum or Washed 
Sulphur of the Pharmacopoeia. As met with in the shops, it 
is a fine bright-yellow powder, with a feeble odor and taste, 
insoluble in water, but soluble in alcohol, ether, chloroform, 
alkaline solutions, and the oils ; and, when perfectly pure, it is 
wholly volatilized by heat, and ought not to change the color 
of litmus paper. 

Effects and Uses. — In small and repeated doses, sulphur is 
a gentle stimulant to the skin and mucous membranes ; and in 
larger doses, it acts as a mild purgative, without exciting the 
pulse or occasioning griping. It is employed in the cases to 
which laxatives are applicable, and also as an alterative diapho- 
retic in chronic cutaneous diseases, rheumatism, and gout, and 
as an expectorant in pulmonary affections. To increase its 
cathartic effect, it is often combined with cream of tartar or 
magnesia. Externally, it is a valuable remedy in various skin 
diseases, particulary scabies. 

Administration. — Dose, 5j to Siij or 5iv, in syrup, treacle, 
or milk. Externally, it is applied in the form of vapor-bath 
or ointment. Unguentum Sulphuris consists of one part of 
sulphur and two parts of lard. 



MAGNESIA. 215 

Sulphur Prjecipitatum (Precipitated Sulphur, or Lac Sul- 
■pliuris), is prepared by boiling together sulphur, slacked liine, 
and water, and afterwards precipitating the sulphur by muriatic 
acid. It is a finer and softer powder than sublimed sulphur, is 
of a paler yellow color, with a grayish tint, and is not gritty 
between the teeth. When exposed to the air, however, it is 
liable to become contaminated with sulphuric acid, and, as 
found in commerce, it is often adulterated with sulphate of 
lime. Its effects, uses, and doses are the same as those of 
sublimed sulphur. 



SALINE CATHARTICS. 
MAGNESIA. 

Magnesia, sometimes called calcined magnesia, from the mode 
in which it is prepared, is procured by exposing the carbonate 
of magnesia to a red heat, till the carbonic acid is wholly ex- 
pelled. It is a light, fine, white, colorless, odorless powder 
(MgO), of a feeble alkaline taste, very slighly soluble in water, 
and more soluble in cold than in hot water. Henry's Magnesia, 
a patent English medicine, has the advantage over the ordinary 
magnesia, of greater density and softness, and more ready mis- 
cibility with water. Magnesia, prepared by Mr. Husband, and 
Mr. Ellis, of Philadelphia, is very similar in properties to 
Henry's. 

Effects and Uses. — Magnesia is antacid and laxative. A 
good deal of its cathartic effect is the result of its combination 
with the^free acids of the stomach and intestines, in which 
soluble magnesian salts are formed. When taken in large 
quantities, and for too long a period, it sometimes accumulates 
in the bowels ; and hence it is best to increase its solubility by 
giving it with lemonade. It is an excellent laxative where 
much acidity exists in the stomach ; and is particularly useful 
in infantile cases. As an antacid, it is employed in heartburn, 
sick headache, and nephritic complaints. Dose, as a laxative, 



216 MATERIA MEDIC A. 

5j ; as an antacid, 3j, in water or milk. Of Henry's half the 
quantity. 



MAGNESIA CARB0NAS — CARBONATE OF MAGNESIA. 

Carbonate of magnesia, sometimes called magnesia alba, is 
prepared by decomposing sulphate of magnesia with an alkaline 
carbonate. As found in the shops it is a combination of car- 
bonate of magnesia and hydrate of magnesia, 3(MgO,C0 2 -f HO) 
-f MgO,HO. It occurs in the form of light white cubical cakes 
or powder ; is inodorous, almost insipid, and nearly insoluble in 
water, but soluble in carbonic acid water. 

Its effects and uses are nearly the same as those of calcined 
magnesia; but, from its effervescence with the acids of the 
stomach, it is apt to create flatulence, though sometimes, on 
this account, more acceptable to delicate stomachs. Dose, as a 
laxative, 5j to 5\j ; as an antacid, gr. x. 

MAGNESIA SULPHAS — SULPHATE OF MAGNESIA. 

This salt, commonly called Epsom Salt, from its having been 
first procured from the Epsom mineral waters in England, oc- 
curs in native crystals, and is a constituent of sea-water and 
many saline springs. It is obtained in England from dolomite, 
or magnesian limestone ; and also from bittern, or the resi- 
dual liquor of sea-water, from which common salt has been 
separated. In this country it is extensively manufactured at 
Baltimore and Philadelphia, by the action of sulphuric acid on 
magnesite, the silicious hydrate of magnesia. It is u«ially met 
with in small acicular crystals, which are colorless, transparent, 
and odorless, but have an extremely bitter taste. They efflo- 
resce on exposure to the air, are very soluble in water and inso- 
luble in alcohol. The chemical composition of the salt is one 
equivalent of acid, one of magnesia, and seven of water of crys- 
tallization (MgO,So 3 +7HO). 

Effects and Uses.— Epsom salt is a mild, safe, refrigerant 



SULPHATE OP SODA. 217 

purgative, which, from its cheapness, is by far the most com- 
monly employed of all cathartics. It is sometimes combined 
with senna, sometimes with the bitter infusions, and is most 
agreeably administered in solution in carbonic acid water. 
Dose, Sj. 



LIQUOR MAGNESIA CITRATIS — SOLUTION OP 
CITRATE OF MAGNESIA. 

The citrate of magnesia, employed medicinally in solution, is 
termed the Uvo-thirds citrate, and has the formula, 2MgO,HO, 
C 12 H 5 O n ; it has never been obtained in a dry state. It is only 
in solution, with a slight excess of acid, and in the effervescing 
state, that it is officinal. The effervescing solution has a pleas- 
ant acid taste, without any thing disagreeable. It is a very 
grateful cathartic, and has lately been much employed as a 
substitute for Epsom salt. As prepared, according to the di- 
rections of the Pharmacopoeia, the solution of citrate does not 
keep well, the amount of magnesia employed being too large. 
The following formula is better : Dissolve 450 grains of citric 
acid in four fluidounces of water, and to this add gradually 100 
grains of ordinary magnesia, stirring till it is dissolved. Filter 
the solution into a strong twelve ounce bottle, containing one 
fluidounce of syrup of citric acid ; then add 40 grains of bicar- 
bonate of potassa, and water enough nearly to fill the bottle, 
which must be closed with a cork secured with twine ; the mix- 
ture is to be shaken till solution occurs. From six to twelve 
fluidounces of the solution may be given. 



SOD^l SULPHAS — SULPHATE OF SODA. 

Sulphate of soda, commonly called Grlauhers Salt, is a con- 
stituent of many mineral springs, and is prepared in various 
chemical processes. It occurs as a residuum in the manufac- 
ture of muriatic acid, made by adding sulphuric acid to chloride 
of sodium ; and it is obtained from sea-water in the winter 



218 MATERIA MEDICA. 

season. It is found in colorless, six-sided, efflorescent crystals, 
which are inodorous, but have a cooling, saline, very bitter 
taste. It is soluble in water, more readily in hot than in cold 
water, and is insoluble in alcohol. Its chemical composition is 
one equivalent of soda, one of acid, and ten of water (NaO, 
SO3+IOHO). 

Its effects and uses are very similar to those of Epsom salt, 
but it is more bitter and nauseous, and is n3W little used. It 
has an anaplastic action on the blood. Dose, §j ; in an efflo- 
resced state, oss. 

MANGANESII SULPHAS — SULPHATE OF MANGANESE. 

This salt, lately introduced into the Pharmacopoeia, is made 
by heating the native black oxide with concentrated sulphuric 
acid, and consists of one equivalent of sulphuric acid and one 
of protoxide of manganese (MnO,S0 3 -f-4HO). It occurs in 
rhombic, prismatic crystals, of a pale-rose or pink color, and an 
astringent, bitterish taste. It is very soluble in water, insolu- 
ble in alcohol. 

In its effects it is said to # resemble Glauber s Salt, acting also 
as a cholagogue. Dose, as a purgative, 5i-ij. As a tonic, it 
has been given in doses of gr. v-xx. 

SOD^ PHOSPHAS — PHOSPHATE OF SODA. 

This salt is prepared by digesting powdered burnt bone with 
diluted sulphuric acid, and decomposing the resulting super- 
phosphate of lime with carbonate of soda. It occurs in large, 
rhombic, colorless, transparent, very efflorescent crystals 
(2NaO,PO 5 +10HO), which are wholly soluble in water, and 
insoluble in alcohol, and have a pleasant saline taste, resembling 
that of common salt. 

Effects and Uses. — Phosphate of soda is a mild saline cath- 
artic, well adapted, from its agreeable taste, to the cases of 
children and delicate persons, but too expensive for general 
use. It is a constituent of the blood in health, and has been 






BITARTRATE OF POTASSA. 219 

recommended in cholera as a restorative of deficient saline 
matters, and also in diseases where there is a deficiency of 
phosphatic matter in the bones. Dose as a cathartic. 5vj to 
5xij, in broth or soup ; as an alterative 3j or 3ij, three or four 
times a day. 



POTASS^ SULPHAS — SULPHATE OF POTASSA. 

This salt exists in both kingdoms of nature, and is obtained 
artificially from the residuum of the distillation of nitric acid, 
from nitrate of potassa and sulphuric acid. It occurs in 
small, hard, colorless, inodorous crystals (KO,S0 3 ), of a saline, 
bitter taste, which have no water of crystallization, and are 
unalterable in the air. They are moderately soluble in water, 
and are insoluble in alcohol. 

Effects and Uses. — In small doses, it is considered a mild 
and safe cathartic ; but, in large doses, it has proved a violent 
and even fatal poison, producing symptoms of cholera. It is 
thought to act as a lactifuge, or represser of milk, and is ad- 
ministered with this view in France. Dose, as a cathartic, gr. 
xv to 5jj or 5ij ; but it is little employed in this country. From 
its hardness and dryness it is useful to promote the trituration 
and division of powders, and for this purpose is employed in 
making Dover's powder. 

POTASS^ BITARTRAS — BITARTRATE OF POTASSA. 

This salt, well known as Cream of Tartar, and termed also 
the acid tartrate of potash, exists in many vegetable juices, 
particularly the juice of grapes, from which it is obtained. It 
is deposited in an impure form, during fermentation, on the 
sides of wine-casks, and in this state occurs in crystalline 
cakes, of a reddish color, known as argol or crude tartar. This 
is purified by solution and crystallization, and forms a white 
crystalline mass or powder, termed cream of tartar. It is with- 
out smell, has an acidulous and gritty taste, is very slightly 
soluble in water, and insoluble in alcohol. Its chemical coin- 



220 MATERIA MEDICA. 

position is one equivalent of potash, one of tartaric acid and 
one of water (KO,HO,C 8 H 4 O 10 ) : the water acts the part of a 
base, as it cannot be expelled without decomposing the salt, 
which, when heated in a close vessel, is converted into a black 
flux, a compound of charcoal and carbonate of potash. 

Effects and Uses. — In small doses, it is diuretic and refrige- 
rant ; in larger doses, cathartic ; and, in excessive doses, it will 
produce gastro-intestinal inflammation. It is employed to form 
a refrigerant drink, and as a gentle aperient, in fevers ; and as 
a diuretic and hydragogue cathartic in dropsies. Dose, as an 
aperient, 5j or 5\j ; as a cathartic, gss to §j ; as a diuretic, 3j 
to 5j, in repeated doses. It enters into the compound poivder 
of jalap. 

POTASSA TARTRAS — TARTRATE OF POTASSA. 

This salt, formerly called Soluble Tartar, is obtained by 
saturating the excess of acid in cream of tartar with carbonate 
of potassa. It occurs in white deliquescent crystals or grains, 
(2KO,C 8 H 4 O 10 ), of a saline, somewhat bitter taste, and is very 
soluble in water. It consists of two equivalents of potassa 
and one of acid. It is a gentle cathartic and diuretic, at pre- 
sent not much used. Dose, §ss to oj. 

POTASSA ET SOD^l TARTRAS — TARTRATE OF POTASSA 

AND SODA. 

This salt, commonly called Rochelle Salt, is made by satu- 
rating the excess of acid in cream of tartar with carbonate of 
soda. It occurs in large, transparent, colorless, prismatic 
slightly efflorescent crystals, of a mildly saline and bitter taste, 
readily soluble in cold water, and still more so in hot water. 
It consists of 1 eq. of soda, 1 of potassa, 1 of acid, and 10 of 
water (NaO,KO,C 8 H 4 O 10 +10HO). It is a mild and plea- 
sant aperient, but it renders the urine alkaline, and should 
not therefore be given to persons suffering with phosphatic 
deposits in the urine. Dose, gss to gj. It is usually ex- 



RHUBARB. 221 

hibited in the form of Pulveres Effervescentes Aperientes 
(Aperient Effervescing Eoivders), or Seidlitz Eoivders, -which 
consist of Rochelle salt (5ij) and bicarbonate of soda (3ij), in 
a blue paper, and tartaric acid (gr. xxxv), in a white paper. 
They are taken, dissolved in half a pint of water, while the 
liquid is in a state of effervescence, and form a very agreeable, 
mild aperient. They should not be kept in a damp place 



MILD ACRID CATHARTICS. 
RHEUM RHUBARB. 

Rhubarb is the root of Rheum palmatum, and of other 
species of Rheum (Nat. Ord. Polygonacese). It is not known 
with certainty what species yields the officinal rhubarb, but it 
is attributed by most writers to R. palmatum, a perennial plant, 
with large, roundish, " cordate, half-palmate leaves, growing 
spontaneously in Chinese Tartary and Mongolia, and cultivated 
in Europe and this country, together with several other varie- 
ties, for the leaf-stalks, which make excellent tarts. Rhubarb 
roots are prepared for the market by being cleansed, deprived 
of their cortical portion, cut into pieces, pierced through their 
centre, strung upon a cord, and dried in the sun. Three prin- 
cipal sorts were long known : Chinese, Russian or Turkey, and 
European. The first two were obtained, by different routes, 
from Central Asia. 1. Chinese rhubarb is the most common 
variety, and is imported principally from Canton. It occurs 
in roundish pieces, sometimes flattened, of a dirty brownish- 
yellow color externally (the cortical portion apparently scraped 
off), having a ragged fracture (which presents reel, yellowish, 
and white veins), and it is often perforated with holes, with 
portions of the cord on which it was dried occasionally remain- 
ing. It has a peculiar odor, an astringent, somewhat bitter 
taste, is gritty when chewed, and tinges the saliva of a yellow 
color ; its powder is yellowish, with a reddish-brown tinge. It 
is heavier than the Russian variety, and is generally inferior 
in quality to it ; but the best pieces answer very well. 2. 



222 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Russian rhubarb had probably the same source as the Chinese, 
but it was selected with greater care, and was rigorously in- 
spected by the Kussian government. It was carried in cara- 
vans through Russia to St. Petersburg, whence it was exported. 
The pieces are irregular in shape, and are often angular, from 
the cortical portion having been cut off and not scraped. They 
are less heavy and compact than the Chinese, of a livelier color 
both externally and internally, and are perforated with larger 
holes, which have been made for the purpose of inspection. 
The taste and smell are very like those of the Chinese, but are 
more aromatic ; the powder is bright yellow. Russian rhubarb 
has, however, within a few years past disappeared as an article 
of commerce, the Russian government having abandoned the 
inspection long practised on the frontiers of Bucharia, whence 
the supply was derived. 3. European rhubarb is of uncertain 
quality, and is seldom found in the shops. The kind most 
frequently met with is English rhubarb, which generally comes 
in pieces five or six inches long, and about an inch thick, and 
is called stick rhubarb. It is lighter, more spongy, and redder 
than the Asiatic varieties, with a feebler odor and less bitter 
taste. 

Rhubarb imparts its virtues to both water and alcohol, but 
they are impaired by long boiling. Its most important chemi- 
cal constituents are — chrysophanic acid, a yellow, odorless, 
tasteless, granular substance ; two, or perhaps three resins, 
soluble in alcohol, and insoluble in water ; and bitter extractive. 
It is supposed that the therapeutical properties of the drug 
depend chiefly on the conjoint operation of these principles. 
It contains also tannic and gallic acids, sugar, pectin, oxalate 
of lime, &c. 

Effects and Uses. — In small doses, rhubarb is an astringent 
tonic. In larger doses, it is a slow and mild cathartic, occa- 
sionally causing griping and accelerating the pulse, but never 
inflaming the mucous membrane of the alimentary canal like 
the drastics. It is much employed as a purgative in diarrhoea, 
in which it is particularly useful from its secondary astringent 
effect, and in dyspepsia, attended with costiveness, where it acts 



RHUBARB. 223 

both as a stomachic and laxative. It is not adapted to febrile 
or inflammatory cases. In the bowel-complaints of children, 
rhubarb deservedly enjoys great popularity, and it is also 
highly esteemed in infantile scrofula. Made into a cata- 
plasm, and applied to the abdomen, it acts as a purgative, on 
children. 

Administration. — Dose, as a stomachic laxative, gr. v. to or. 
x; us a, purgative, &j to 5j- The following are the officinal 
preparations : Infusion (5j to boiling water Oss), dose, "fgj to 
f §ij, repeated ; Extract (alcoholic), dose, gr. x to gr. xxx ; 
Fluid Extract (made with alcohol, and containing also sugar), 
dose, f5ss, containing half a drachm of the root ; Tincture 
(§iij to diluted alcohol Oij, with cardamom gss) ; Tincture of 
Rhubarb and Senna (containing rhubarb a troyounce, senna 
and red saunders each 120 grains, coriander, fennel, and 
extract of liquorice, each 30 grains, raisins 6 troyounces, to 
diluted alcohol Oiij, and popularly known as Warner's Gout 
Cordial) ; Tincture of Rhubarb and Aloes and Tincture of 
Rhubarb and Gentian are no longer officinal ; the dose of all 
the tinctures is f§ss to f§j, and they are chiefly adapted to low 
forms of disease and persons accustomed to the use of stimu- 
lants ; Pills of Rhubarb (rhubarb 360 grains, beaten with 
water into a pilular mass' with soap 120 grains, and divided 
into 120 pills) ; Compound Pills of Rhubarb (rhubarb a troy- 
ounce, aloes 360 grains, myrrh half a troyounce, oil of pepper- 
mint half a fluidrachm, beaten with water into a pilular mass, 
and divided into 240 pills) ; Compound Powder of Rhubarb 
(containing 2 parts of rhubarb, 6 parts of magnesia, and 1 
part of ginger) ; Syrup (fluid extract 3 fluidounces mixed 
with syrup 29 fluidounces) ; Aromatic Syrup (rhubarb two 
troyounces and a half, cloves and cinnamon each half a 
troyounce, nutmeg 120 grains, percolated with diluted alco- 
hol till a pint of tincture is obtained, and this mixed with 
six pints of syrup — much used in infantile cases under the 
name of Spiced Syrup of Rhubarb), dose for an infant f.ji ; 
and zvine (rhubarb two troyounces, canella 60 grains, sherry 
wine 14 fluidounces, and diluted alcohol enough to make a 



224. ' MATERIA MEDICA. 

pint — dose f5i-f5ss). Roasting impairs the cathartic power 
of rhubarb, and is said to increase its astringency. 

Juglaxs (Butternut). The inner bark of the root of 
Juglans cinerea, or Butternut (Nat, Orel. Juglandaceae), an 
indigenous forest tree, possesses cathartic properties, resem- 
bling those of rhubarb. Dose of the bark, or of the extract 
which is preferred, gr. x to gr. xxx. 



ALOE — ALOES. 

Aloes is the inspissated juice of the leaves of Aloe 
spicata, Aloe Socotrina, Aloe vulgaris, and other species of 
Aloe (Nat. Orel. Liliaceie), succulent, herbaceous plants, 
growing in warm countries. The finest kinds are obtained 
by exudation : those prepared by expression and by boiling 
are inferior. Three principal varieties are known in com- 
merce : Cape, Socotrine, and Barbadoes aloes, the first two 
of which are the most used in the United States. 1. Cape 
aloes (aloe capensis), which is much the most common, is 
obtained from the Cape of Good Hope, where it is collected 
indiscriminately from A. spicata and other species. It has 
a shining, resinous appearance, is of a deep-brown color, 
with a greenish tint, translucent at its edges, and has a 
glossy or resinous fracture. Its powder is greenish-yellow ; 
its odor, is strong and disagreeable, but not nauseous. 2. 
Socotrine aloes (aloe Socotrina), when genuine, is the choicest 
variety. It is produced in the island of Socotra, and on the 
eastern coast of Africa, from A. Socotrina, and occurs in 
pieces of a yellowish or reddish-brown color, becoming darker 
on exposure to the air, with a smooth and conchoidal fracture, 
the interior being lighter-colored than the exterior. Its 
powder is golden-yellow ; its odor peculiar, but not unpleasant, 
and its taste bitter and disagreeable, but aromatic. Socotrine 
aloes should always be preferred, and is the variety directed by 
the Pharmacopoeia in all preparations into which aloes enters. 






ALOES. 225 

Hepatic aloes is probably an inferior variety of Socotrine, and 
is seldom met with in our shops. It is of a reddish-brown 
color, but darker and less glossy than the Socotrine. 3. 
Barbadoes aloes (aloe Barbadensis), comes from the West 
Indies, the product chiefly of A. vulgaris ; it is imported in 
gourds, weighing from sixty to seventy pounds. Its color is 
not uniform, varying from a dark-brown or black to a liver 
color. It has a dull fracture ; makes an olive-yellow powder ; 
and is distinguishable by its particularly disagreeable, nauseous 
odor. The taste of all the varieties of aloes is intensely bitter, 
and very tenacious. 

Aloes yields its virtues to water and alcohol. A proximate 
neutral crystalline principle, termed aloin, has been extracted 
from it, which produces the cathartic action of aloes in doses of 
gr. j to gr. ij. It is slightly soluble in cold water, but readily 
soluble in hot water and alcohol. 

.Effects and Uses. — Aloes, in small doses, is tonic, and in 
large doses, purgative. As a cathartic it is remarkable for the 
slowness of its operation, and its special action on the large 
intestine and the pelvic viscera generally. Hence, it is objec- 
tionable in cases of hemorrhoids, irritation of the genito-urin>ary 
apparatus, pregnancy, &c. ; and, on the other hand, is useful in 
amenorrhoea. It stimulates the hepatic secretion also. It is 
principally employed in cases of dyspepsia, accompanied by 
costiveness, dependent on a torpid condition of the large intes- 
tine or liver. It is also useful as a revulsive in cerebral affec- 
tions, and has proved efficacious as an anthelmintic. As a 
purgative, it holds an intermediate rank between rhubarb and 
senna. 

Administration. — Dose, gr. v togr. x-xx, in pill; it is usually 
given in combination with other cathartics. Aloes is so often 
mixed with impurities, that, for medicinal use, it is best em- 
ployed under the form of aloe purificata (purified aloes), which 
is prepared by straining and evaporating an alcoholic solution. 
The officinal preparations are : Pills of Aloes, consisting of 
equal parts of aloes and soap, one pill containing two grains of 

15 



226 MATERIA MEDICA. 

aloes ; Pills of Aloes and Mastic, three parts of aloes to one 
part of mastic and red rose, each ; Pills of Aloes and Assafetida, 
consisting of equal quantities of aloes, assafetida and soap, 
useful in flatulent constipation; Pills of Aloes and Myrrh, 
or Rufuss Pills, aloes four parts, myrrh two parts, and saffron 
one part, made into pills with syrup, employed in amenorrhcea ; 
Powder of Aloes and Canella, known as Mera picra, four parts 
of aloes to one of canella; Tincture (a troyounce to alcohol 
Oss, distilled water Ojss, with extract of liquorice three troy- 
ounces), dose, fgss to f Sjss ; Tincture of Aloes and Myrrh 
(aloes and myrrh each three troyounces, saffron a troyounce, to 
two pints of alcohol) ; Wine of Aloes (aloes a troyounce, carda- 
mom and ginger each 60 grains, to a pint of sherry wine). 



LEPTANDRA. 

The root of Leptandra Virginica, Culver's Root, or Culver's 
Physic (Nat. Ord. Scrophulariacese), an herbaceous, perennial 
plant, three or four feet high, with leaves in whorls, and a long 
spike of white flowers, is now ranked as a valuable cholagogue 
cathartic. It consists of a dark-brown rhizoma, from two to 
four lines in thickness, several inches in length, with numerous 
long slender radicals. The odor is feeble and disagreeable, the 
taste bitterish, somewhat nauseous and acrid. Water and alco- 
hol extract its virtues, which depend on a peculiar principle, 
termed leptandrin. Dose of the powdered root, gr. xx to 5j ; 
of an impure resin (made by precipitating a tincture of the 
root), gr. ij-iv; a fluid extract also has been used. 



SENNA. 227 



SENNA. 



Senna consists of the leaflets of several species of Cassia 
(Nat. Ord. Fabaceae), small shrubs, which grow in the tropical 
regions of Asia and Africa. The species recognized as offi- 
cinal are C. acutifolia, C. obovata, and C. elongata ; and be- 
sides these, C. lanceolata, and C. iEthiopica, are also generally 
received as sources of the drug. The commercial varieties of 
senna, which are found in the United States, are the Alexan- 
dria, the Tripoli, the India, and the Mecca senna. 1. Alexan- 
dria senna, which comes from the port of this name in Egypt, 
is made up chiefly of the leaflets of C. acutifolia (which are 
yellowish-green, acute in shape, and less than an inch in 
length), intermingled with the pods, leafstalks, flowers, &c, of 
this plant. It contains also leaflets of C. obovata, known by 
their rounded, obtuse summits ; and is, moreover, occasionally 
adulterated with the leaves of Cynanchum oleaefolium, distin- 
guishable by their greater length, thickness, and firmness, from 
the genuine leaves. 2. Tripoli senna, brought from Tripoli, 
consists of the leaflets of C. iEthiopica, which are shorter, less 
acute, thinner, and more fragile than those of C. acutifolia, 
and are generally much broke?i up. 3. India senna is pro- 
duced in Arabia, but comes into commerce through the ports 
of Hindostan. It consists of the leaflets, intermixed with the 
leafstalks and pods, of C. elongata, and is readily recognized 
by the long, narrow, pike-like shape, and dark hue of the leaf- 
lets. A finer variety of India senna, cultivated at Tinnevelly, 
in Hindostan, has been known for some years past, which is 
distinguishable from the common sort of India senna, by the 
bright-green color of the leaflets. 4. Mecca senna is a variety 
lately introduced, and consists of leaflets, intermediate in length 
between those of C. acutifolia and C. elongata, and has in mass 
a yellowish, tawny hue. Its source is not known with cer- 
tainty, but it is probably the product of C. lanceolata. Cas- 
sia obovata has been lately found growing wild in abundance in 
Jamaica. 



228 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Commercial senna is prepared for use by separating the 
leaflets from the stalks, adulterations, &c. ; the pods possess 
cathartic properties, but are less active than the leaves. The 
odor of senna is faint and sickly ; its taste bitter, sweetish, and 
nauseous. It imparts its virtues to water and alcohol, its in- 
fusion being of a reddish-brown color. The chemical compo- 
sition of senna has long been an unsettled point. By the latest 
analysis, it has been found to contain a glucoside, cathartic acid 
(C 180 H 96 N 2 O 82 S), which is insoluble in water, stronger alcohol, and 
ether. Catharto-mannite, sennepicrin, and a reddish-brown 
compound, soluble in ether, resembling chrysophanic acid, have 
been also obtained. 

Effects and Uses. — Senna is a prompt, efficient, and safe 
cathartic, well adapted to febrile and inflammatory cases ; it 
operates on the entire track of the intestinal canal, and pro- 
duces watery, feculent discharges. Its tendency to gripe may 
in a great measure be counteracted by combining aromatics or 
neutral salts with it ; the addition of bitters promotes its cath- 
artic activity. 

Administration.— -The dose in powder is 5ss to oij ; but it is 
usually given in infusion (a troyounce to boiling water Oj with 
coriander, 5j), one-third for a dose, repeated. Confectio sennas 
(made with senna, coriander, sugar, figs, and pulps of prunes, 
tamarinds, and purging cassia), is an excellent mild cathartic, 
much used for pregnant women ; dose, 5ij. Of the fluid extract 
the dose is foi to f 5ss. 



CASSIA MARILAiXDICA AMERICAN SEXXA. 

Cassia Marilandica, American Senna, or Wild Senna (J\ T at. 
Orel. Fabaceae), possesses cathartic properties similar to those 
of imported seona, but is less active. It is an indigenous plant, 
common in the Southern and Western States, growing to the 
height of three or four feet, with alternate leaves, composed of 
from eight to ten pairs of oblong, lanceolate, pale-green leaflets, 
and bearing handsome golden-yellow flowers and a pendulous 




229 



fruit two to four inches long. An infusion of the LEAFLETS is 
given in doses one-third larger than those of senna. 



SAMBUCUS ELDER. 

Several portions of Sambucus Canadensis, our indigenous 
common elder, (Nat. Orel. Caprifoliaeese), a well-known shrub, 
from six to ten feet high, found in all the Atlantic States, pos- 
sess medicinal properties. The flowers, which are officinal, 
are employed internally as a diaphoretic ; externally as a discu- 
tient. The inner bark, which is without smell, and has a taste 



230 MATERIA MEDICA. 

at first sweetish, afterwards slightly bitter, acrid, and nauseous, 
and contains a resin, with valerianic acid, and other principles, 
is a hydragogue cathartic, and in large doses emetic. It is 
deemed a valuable remedy in dropsy, particularly in dropsy de- 
pendent on albuminuria, in which affection specific alterative 
virtues are attributed to it. It is given in decoction (an ounce 
boiled with two pints of water to a pint) ; dose, f Siv. An in- 
fusion in cider is popularly employed. 

DRASTIC CATHARTICS. 
JALAPA — JALAP. 

Jalap is the root of Ipomsea Purga {Nat, Ord. Convolvu- 
lacese), a climbing plant of Mexico, which derives its name from 
the city of Jalapa, near Vera Cruz. The roots are imported either 
whole or in slices. When entire, they vary in size and shape from 
a walnut to a large pear, are hard and heavy — externally, brown 
and wrinkled, and internally, grayish. They have a heavy, sweet- 
ish, rather nauseous smell, and a sweetish, acrid, disagreeable 
taste. They yield their virtues partly to water, partly to alcohol, 
and completely to diluted alcohol. In the shops, jalap is kept in 
the state of powder, which is of a yellowish-gray color. Its 
active principle is a peculiar resin, which consists of two portions, 
one of which has been termed rhodeoretin ; it contains also gum 
and starch, which is apt to be attacked by worms, the worm- 
eaten pieces becoming thus the most active. 

Effects and Uses. — Jalap is a powerful hydragogue cathar- 
tic, operating with great promptness, and often causing much 
pain. In overdoses, it may produce dangerous hypercatharsis. 
It is employed as a hydragogue in dropsy, when it is often com- 
bined with cream of tartar; as a revulsive in cerebral and 
other affections, and to increase the activity of calomel in bili- 
ous fever. Dose, gr. xv to xxx ; in combination, gr. x. Of 
the extract, which is made with diluted alcohol, and contains the 
resin and gum, the dose is one half that of jalap. The com- 
pound poivder of jalap contains one part of jalap and two parts 



MAY-APPLE. 



231 



of cream of tartar. The resin is extracted by solution in alco- 
hol, and afterwards precipitated from the tincture by water (16 
troyounces of jalap percolated with alcohol to four pints, then 
reduced to half a pint by distillation, and precipitated with four 
pints of water) ; dose, from four to eight grains. The tincture 
(six troyounces to alcohol, diluted with one-half a measure of 
water, Oij) is added to cathartic mixtures. 



PODOPHYLLUM PELTATUM — MAY-APPLE. 

Podophyllum peltatum, May-apple, or Mandrake (Nat. Ord. 
Ranunculacese), is a very common indigenous, herbaceous plant, 

Fie. 21. 




with a long, creeping, perennial root, and an upright stem about 
a foot high, separating at the top into two petioles, each sup- 



232 MATERIA MEDICA. 

porting a large peltate leaf, divided into five or six lobes. At 
the fork of the petioles, it bears a single flower, which appears 
in May, the fruit ripening in September. The rhizoma, which 
is the part used, is found in the shops in wrinkled, jointed 
pieces, about two lines in diameter, of a brown color exter- 
nally, and yellowish within. The powder is yellowish-gray, and 
has a sweetish smell ; its taste is at first sweetish, afterwards 
bitter, acrid, and nauseous. Diluted alcohol is the best solvent 
of podophyllum, which has been found to contain two resinous 
cathartic principles, both soluble in alcohol. 

Effects and Uses. — This is an active hydragogue cathartic, 
with an especial determination to the upper portion of the 
alimentary canal, and a pretty decided cholagogue action. It 
is an ingredient in several cathartic nostrums. Dose, mpowder, 
3j ; of the extract (prepared like the extract of jalap), gr. v to 
gr. xv ; of the resin (made in the same way as the resin of 
jalap), gr. \ to gr. j. 



SCAMMONIUM — SCAMMONY. 

Scammony is the concrete juice of the root of Convolvulus 
Scammonia (Nat. Ord. Convolvulacese), a twining plant of 
Syria. The finest kind is the product of exudation from the 
sliced root ; but most of the drug which reaches us is probably 
obtained by expression. It comes from the Levant. Genuine 
scammony, termed Virgin Scammony, occurs in light, irregular, 
friable pieces, covered with a whitish-gray powder, and breaking 
with a bright-greenish fracture. The scammony of the shops, 
which is always more or less adulterated, is in hard, heavy, 
saucer-shaped cakes, from four to six inches in diameter (some- 
times broken into pieces), of a dark ash or slate color. The 
powder is light-gray; the smell disagreeable, like that of old 
cheese ; the taste at first feeble, afterwards bitterish and acrid. 
Scammony is a gum-resin, its active ingredient being resin, 
which constitutes from 80 to 90 per cent, of the weight of good 
scammony. Its proper solvents are alcohol and ether. 



COLOCYNTH. 233 

A factitious scammony, made in France, and known as Mont- 
pelier Scammony, is occasionally imported into the United 
States. It is blacker than the genuine article, has a feeble, 
balsamic odor, and a very bitter nauseous taste. 

Effects and Uses. — Scammony is an energetic hydragogue 
cathartic, operating sometimes with great violence, and seldom 
given, except in combination with other cathartics. Dose, gr. 
v to gr. xv of the pure drug, gr. x to gr. xxx of the drug of 
the shops ; of the resin (made by digesting six troyounces of 
scammony with successive portions of alcohol until exhausted, 
mixing the tinctures, afterwards reducing the mixture to a 
syrupy consistence by distilling off the alcohol, and then preci- 
pitating with a pint of water), gr. iv to gr. viij. This is much 
used in the form of compound extract of colocyntli. 

Helleborus {Black Hellebore). The root of Helleborus 
Niger, Black Hellebore, or Christmas Rose (Nat. Orel. Ranun- 
culacese), a mountainous European plant, at one time enjoyed 
much reputation as a hydragogue cathartic and emmenagogue. 
It is now little used, and only as an emmenagogue. Dose of 
the pow dered root, gr. x to gr. xx ; of the alcoholic extract, gr. 
v to gr. x ; of the tincture (four troyounces to diluted alcohol 
Oij), foss to foj- 



COLOCYNTHIS — COLOCYNTH. 

Colocynth is the fruit (deprived of its rind) of Citrullus 
Colocynthis or Bitter Cucumber (Nat. Orel. Cucurbitaceae), 
an annual plant of the south of Europe and parts of Asia 
and Africa, resembling the common watermelon. The fruit 
is peeled and dried for exportation, and comes to us from 
the Levant. It consists of light, whitish, spongy balls, 
about the size of a small orange, filled with numerous seeds. 
For medicinal use, the pulp only is employed, and the seeds, 
which are inactive, are rejected. The pulp has a feeble odor, 
and a nauseous, intensely bitter taste. It yields its virtues to 



234 MATERIA MEDICA. 

both water and alcohol, and contains a peculiar bitter principle 
termed colocynthin, resin, &c. 

Effects and Uses. — Colocynth is a violent hydragogue 
cathartic, acting sometimes very harshly even in small doses, 
and in overdoses producing dangerous, and occasionally fatal 
enteric inflammation. The dose is gr. v to gr. x. It is seldom, 
however, administered alone. The alcoholic extract is made by 
depriving 48 troy ounces of colocynth of seeds, grinding, macera- 
ting in 8 pints of diluted alcohol for four days, expressing, perco- 
lating the residue with diluted alcohol till the tincture and ex- 
pressed liquid measure 16 pints ; the alcohol is then recovered ; 
and the residue evaporated to dryness and powdered. This is used 
chiefly in the preparation of the compound extract, which is 
made by mixing three troyounces and a half of alcoholic 
extract, twelve troyounces of aloes, three troyounces of resin 
of scammony, a troyounce of cardamom, and three troyounces 
of soap ; this is a favorite prescription, but it is apt to gripe, 
and it is well to combine some aromatic with it, as a little oil 
of cloves or capsicum — dose, gr. v-x. 



GAMBOGIA — GAMBOGE. 

Gamboge is a gum-resin, procured in Siam and Cochin- 
China, the concrete juice of a tree which has never yet 
been examined by botanists. The juice is said to be collected, 
as it exudes from the wounded bark of the tree, in cocoa-nut 
shells, and is afterwards rolled into cylinders, or transferred to 
earthen jars to dry; it is sometimes also received into the 
hollow joints of the bamboo. It is imported from Canton and 
Calcutta, and occurs in cylindrical rolls from one to three 
inches in diameter, of an orange color, known as pipe gamboge, 
or in irregular masses (which are less pure), weighing two or 
three pounds or more, called cake or lump gamboge. Good 
gamboge is opaque, brittle, inodorous, nearly insipid, and 
breaks with a vitreous fracture; its powder is bright-yellow. 
It is a gum-resin, forming a yellow opaque emulsion with water, 
and a golden-yellow solution with alcohol. 






ELATERIUM. 235 

Effects and Uses. — Gamboge is a powerful hydragogue, and 
in overdoses lias proved fatal. It is employed in obstinate 
constipation — in dropsies, combined with cream of tartar or 
jalap — and has been given to destroy taenia. Dose, gr. ij to 
gr. vj. It is often prescribed with other and milder cathartics, 
to promote and accelerate their action. Compound cathartic 
pills are made by mixing half a troyounce of compound 
extract of colocynth, 180 grains of extract of jalap and calo- 
mel each, and 40 grains of gamboge, and with water forming a 
pilular mass, to be divided into 180 pills. Three of the pills, 
containing lOf grains of the mass, represent 4 grains of com- 
pound extract of colocynth, 3 of extract of jalap and calomel 
each, and § grain of gamboge. 

BLATERIUM. 

Elaterium is a substance deposited by the juice of the fkuit 
of Momordica Elaterium, Ecbalium agreste, or Squirting Cucum- 
ber (Nat. Orel. Cucurbitacese), an annual vine of the south of 
Europe, now cultivated in England. The fruit has the shape 
of a small oval cucumber, and, when fully ripe, separates from 
the peduncle, and throws out its juice and seeds with con- 
siderable force, through an opening in the base. Pure elate- 
rium is obtained by slicing the fruit, and allowing the juice to 
drain through a sieve. The juice deposits a sediment, which 
dries in very light, thin, nearly flat, pulverulent, greenish-gray 
cakes, and is the genuine elaterium. It is almost inodorous, 
and has a bitter, acrid taste. The commercial elaterium, which 
is obtained chiefly from England, is made by expression. The 
drug is to be considered inferior when it is dark-colored, much 
curled, and hard. Elaterium yields its virtues to alcohol and 
not to water. Its active principle is called elaterin, and proves 
powerfully cathartic in doses of fa to 20 °f a g ram - 

Effects and Uses. — Elaterium is a hyclragogue cathartic of 
great violence of operation, and in overdoses has frequently 
proved fatal. It has also a diuretic action. It is a very effi- 
cient remedy in the treatment of dropsies, and is also a useful 



236 MATERIA MEDICA. 

revulsive in cerebral affections ; but, in administering it con- 
siderable caution is required. Dose of the pure drug (termed 
Clutterbuck's elaterium), gr. J ; of the drug of the shops, gr. j 
to gr. ij ; but it is most safely given in divided closes. Of 
elaterin, the dose is gr. \ to gr. y 1 ^. 



OLEUM TIGLII — CROTON OIL. 

Croton oil is obtained from the seeds of Croton Tiglium 
{Nat. Ord. Euphorbiaceae), a small tree of the East Indies. 
The Croton seeds resemble the Castor seeds in shape and size, 
and consist of a blackish shell, sometimes covered with a yellow- 
ish-brown epidermis, and enclosing a yellowish oily kernel. 
They are highly irritant and cathartic, but are not imported into 
this country. They contain a volatile oil, a fixed oil, resin, 
crotonic acid, &c. The croton oil of the shops is obtained by 
expression, and is a mixture of the fixed oil proper, the. resin, 
and crotonic acid. It is made both in India and England, the 
Indian oil being of a pale straw-color, and the English reddish- 
brown ; the latter is the variety now found in the shops. It 
has a viscid consistence, which is increased by age, a faint 
peculiar odor, and an extremely acrid, pungent taste; it is 
soluble in ether and the volatile and fixed oils, and partially so 
in alcohol. 

Physiological Effects. — Croton oil, taken internally, is a 
powerful hydragogue purgative, occasionally increasing also 
the secretion from the kidneys. One or two drops are usually 
sufficient to produce active catharsis, but sometimes as much as 
eight or ten drops may be taken without affecting the bowels. 
It operates very speedily, often causing evacuations in half an 
hour, and is apt to produce considerable depression of the vas- 
cular system. In overdoses it has frequently proved fatal. 
Rubbed on the skin, croton oil causes rubefaction and a pus- 
tular or vesicular eruption ; and, rubbed over the abdomen, it 
will sometimes purge. 

Medicinal Uses. — Croton oil, from the smallness of the dose 



MERCURIAL CATHARTICS. 237 

required, and the speediness of its action, is an extremely 
valuable purgative in obstinate constipation, and in cerebral dis- 
orders, particularly coma. As a counter-irritant, it is exten- 
sively employed in pulmonary and laryngeal affections, diseases 
of the joints, &c. Dose, one or two drops made into pill, with 
bread-crumb. For external use, it may be diluted with one or 
two parts of olive oil or oil of turpentine. 



MERCURIAL CATHARTICS. 

The preparations of mercury, employed as cathartics, are 
calomel, blue pill, and mercury with chalk. Their purgative 
effects depend partly on the increased flow of bile which they 
occasion, and partly on the stimulus which they give to secre- 
tion from the mucous follicles of the intestinal canal, and from 
the pancreas. They are rarely employed alone, owing to the 
slowness and uncertainty of their action ; but are usually com- 
bined with, or followed by other cathartics (as jalap, senna, 
rhubarb, compound extract of colocynth, or some of the saline 
preparations). The mercurial cathartics are usually admin- 
istered with a view of combining a purgative action with an 
effect on the secretions, particularly that of the liver ; also, as 
anthelmintics ; and as revulsives in cerebral and other affections. 
They are well adapted to infantile cases, from the facility of 
their administration, and are especially beneficial in the ephe- 
meral febrile attacks to which children are subject; they, 
moreover, rarely produce salivation in children. 

Hydrargyri Chloridum Mite (Mild Chloride of Mercury, 
or Calomel). (Noticed at length under the head of Altera- 
tives). Dose, as a cathartic, gr. vj to xij, in pill or in powder, 
with syrup or molasses ; to be followed, in from four to six 
hours, by some other cathartic. Sometimes, when it is ex- 
hibited with a view to a full action on the liver, gr. j or ij may 
be given every hour or two until the whole purgative dose is 
taken ; or, it may be administered at bedtime, with an aperient 
draught the next morning. For children, larger doses are 



238 MATERIA MEDICA. 

required in proportion than for adults : gr. iij — vj may be given 
to a child from three to six years old. Calomel occasionally 
causes griping pain in the bowels, with bilious vomiting ; this 
is attributable, not to any irritable qualities in the medicine, 
but to the acrid character of the bile secreted. Calomel is an 
ingredient of the Compound Cathartic Pills. 

PiLULiE Hydrarg-yri (Pills of Mercury), commonly called 
Blue Pills (see Alteratives), are analogous in their cathartic 
action to calomel, but milder. They are given in about the 
same doses, and in the same combinations, kc. 

Hydrargyrum cum Creta (Mercury with Chalk), — (see 
Alteratives), — combines antacid with mercurial effects. It is a 
very mild preparation — weaker than even blue pill. It is used 
as a laxative, in bowel-complaints and other affections of chil- 
dren. Dose, gr. v-xx for adults ; for children, gr. ij or iij to 
viij or x, in powder, and not in pill. 

EX EM AT A. 

In cases of irritability of the stomach — or with the view of 
hastening the action of cathartics taken by the mouth — or to 
remove feculent accumulations in the lower bowels -«-or to re- 
lieve tympanites — or for the purpose of revulsion, cathartic 
enemata are frequently administered. 

When it is desired simply to open the bowels mechanically, 
tepid water, flaxseed tea, or other demulcent infusion may be 
employed. The common laxative enema consists of a table- 
spoonful of common salt, molasses, and lard or olive oil, each, 
in two-thirds of a pint of warm water ; castor oil, or Epsom 
salt may be added to increase the cathartic effect. Senna tea, 
or some other cathartic infusion is often employed. To relieve 
flatulency, oil of turpentine (fgss to fgj, in emulsion), or milk 
of assafetida (fgij to f?»iv), may be given. The latter is an 
excellent preparation in infantile cases. 



DIAPHORETICS. 239 



ORDER III. DIAPHORETICS. 



Diaphoretics (from diafopeu, I transpire), called also sudorifics, 
are medicines which promote transpiration from the skin. The 
action of the cutaneous exhalants may be increased by various 
means. The mere introduction of a large quantity of fluid into 
the system will produce sweating, if the skin be kept warm. 
Exercise and a warm temperature, by determining a flow of 
blood to the cutaneous vessels, act in the same way. Nause- 
ants occasion diaphoresis, by relaxing the orifices of the cu- 
taneous vessels ; stimulants, by exciting them to increased 
secretion. Diaphoretics are employed therapeutically, for their 
evacuant, revulsive, and alterative effects, and to promote ab- 
sorption. Different classes of diaphoretics are required for 
different morbid conditions. 

1. Nauseating Diaphoretics. — Most of the emetics, in nause- 
ating doses, produce a powerful relaxing diaphoretic action, 
and are much employed, with this view, in inflammatory cases, 
when not contraindicated by the presence of gastric irritability. 
The Preparations op Antimony (see p. 188), and Ipecacuanha 
(see p. 204), are chiefly resorted to as nauseating diaphoretics. 
Ipecacuanha is often given as a diaphoretic, in combination 
with opium, in the form of Dover's Powder (see p. 49). 

2. Refrigerant Diaphoretics. — The saline and ethereal prepa- 
rations classed as refrigerants (see p. 193), produce a gentle 
relaxing diaphoretic action, unattended with nausea. They 
are used to allay febrile excitement. 

3. Stimulating Diaphoretics. — This group includes the diffu- 
sible stimulants, aromatic substances generally, of every class, 
and many narcotics, particularly opium and camphor. They 
are contraindicated in high inflammation, but are very service- 
able in rheumatic and pulmonary affections, after vascular ex- 
citement has been reduced, and in all diseases where the sur- 
face of the body is cold. Opium, in the form of Dover s 
Powder, may be employed in inflammatory cases, where other 
stimulating diaphoretics are inadmissible, and is given with 



240 MATERIA MEDICA. 

advantage in an early stage of acute rheumatism, dysentery, 
and catarrh, unless the action of the pulse be very strong, 
when depletion should be previously resorted to. The opera- 
tion of the diaphoretic stimulants is promoted by the free use 
of warm diluent drinks, and warm covering to the body. 

4. Alterative Diaphoretics. — Under this head are comprised 
a class of diaphoretic medicines, which produce a gradual and 
nearly insensible increase of the cutaneous secretion, and are 
supposed to promote the elimination of noxious matters from 
the blood, through the vessels of the skin. They are employed 
chiefly in chronic rheumatic and cutaneous affections, and in 
secondary syphilis. 

ALTERATIVE DIAPHORETICS. 
SARSAPARILLA. 

The name Sarsaparilla is applied to the roots of Smilax 
officinalis and other species of Smilax (Nat. Ord. Smilacese), 
twining, prickly shrubs of Mexico, Guatemala, and the warm 
countries of South America. The roots consist of numerous 
wrinkled, slender pieces, of the average thickness of a writing 
quill, several feet long, springing from a common head or 
rhizoma, and are frequently found in the shops with portions 
of the stems attached. Several varieties are known : 1. Hon- 
duras Sarsaparilla, the most common variety in the United 
States, comes in bundles two or three feet long, composed of 
several roots folded lengthwise, of a dirty grayish or reddish- 
brown color. 2. Jamaica Sarsaparilla, which is probably 
derived also from Central America, comes in shorter bundles, 
and is known by the red color of the epidermis. 3. Vera Cruz 
Sarsaparilla comes in large, loose bales, bound with cords or 
leather thongs, containing the roots folded on themselves, con- 
sisting of a head with numerous long radicals. 4. Brazilian or 
Rio Negro Sarsaparilla is distinguished by the amylaceous 
character of its interior structure. 5. G-uatemala Sarsaparilla 
resembles the Brazilian. 



SARSAPARILLA. 241 

Sarsaparilla roots are several feet in length, about the 
thickness of a goose-quill, cylindrical, more or less wrinkled 
longitudinally, and consist of a whitish-brown, or pink cortical 
portion, covered with a thin gray, brown, or red epidermis, and 
inclosing a layer of whitish ligneous fibre, and a central pith. 
The cortical portion is more active than the interior portions ; 
the central medulla contains a good deal of starch. Sarsapa- 
rilla, in the dried state, is nearly inodorous, but its decoction 
has a strong smell. It has a mucilaginous, slightly bitter 
taste, and, when chewed for some time, produces a persistent 
acrid impression on the mouth ; this acridity of taste is the 
criterion of good sarsaparilla. Water and diluted alcohol 
extract its virtues, but they are impaired by long boiling. It 
contains an active principle, called smilacin or sarsaparillin, 
starch, resin, extractive, &c. 

Effects and Uses. — The physiological effects of sarsaparilla, 
beyond a slight diaphoretic action, are not very obvious ; in 
large doses, it occasionally produces nausea and vomiting. Its 
efficacy, however, in eradicating various morbid symptoms is 
well established, and its mode of action, though obscure, is 
generally attributed to a purifying influence on the blood, 
through the function of the skin. It is employed in secondary 
syphilis, particularly where the disease resists or is aggravated 
by the use of mercury ; also in chronic rheumatism, skin 
diseases, and cachectic conditions of the system generally. 

Administration. — Dose, of the powder, 5ss, three or four 
times a day — not much used, however, in this form. The 
compound decoction is made by macerating six troyounces of 
sarsaparilla, a troyounce of bark of sassafras root, guaiacum 
wood, and liquorice root, each, and 180 grains of mezereon, in 
4 pints of water for 12 hours, then boiling for a quarter of an 
hour, and adding water enough to make the decoction measure 
4 pints — dose, f giv-vi, 3 times a day. The compound syrup 
(which contains also guaiacum wood, pale rose leaves, senna, 
liquorice root, and the oils of sassafras, anise, and partridge- 
berry), is a favorite preparation : corrosive sublimate should 
not be given with it, as it is decomposed into calomel. Dose, 

16 



242 MATERIA MEDICA. 

fgss, three times a day. Of the fluid extract, the dose is f 5ss. 
The compound fluid extract contains the ingredients of the 
compound decoction, except the guaiacum — dose, f 5j, three or 
four times a day. 



ARALIA NUDICAULIS — FALSE SARSAPARILLA. 

The root of Aralia Nudicaulis, False Sarsaparilla, or Small 
Spikenard (Nat. Ord. Araliacese), a small, indigenous, peren- 
nial plant, possesses alterative diaphoretic properties similar 
to those of sarsaparilla, and is employed as a substitute for it, 
in the same manner and doses. 

The root of A. racemosa or American Spikenard, and the 
bark of A. spinosa, or Angelica-tree, are also employed as 
alterative diaphoretics. 

GUAIACI LIGNUM — GUAIACUM WOOD. 
GUAIACI RESINA — GUAIAC. 

Guaiacum Wood, or Lignum Vita?, and Guaiac, are products 
of Guaiacum officinale (Nat. Ord. Zygophyllacese), a large 
evergreen tree of South America and the West Indies. The 
wood, which is remarkable for its hardness and density, is 
imported in logs or billets, covered with a thick gray bark ; the 
outer portion or sapwood is of a pale yellow color, the inner of 
an olive-brown. It is usually kept in the shops in the state of 
shavings or raspings ; they are inodorous, unless heated, and, 
when chewed for some time, they have a bitterish, pungent 
taste. Guaiacum wood yields its virtues to alcohol, and 
partially to water ; they depend on the guaiac contained in the 
wood. 

Guaiac is the concrete juice of Guaiacum officinale. It is 
obtained by spontaneous exudation, or by boring and heating 
billets of the wood, or by boiling the chips in a solution of salt, 
and skimming off the matter which rises to the surface. It 
comes in large, irregular, semi-transparent, brittle pieces, of 



MEZEREON. 243 



varying size — externally, of a deep green or olive color, and 
internally, red. It has a slight, balsamic odor, which is ren- 
dered stronger by heat, and, though at first nearly tasteless, 
leaves a hot, acrid sensation in the mouth and throat. Water 
dissolves it partially, alcohol completely. It consists chiefly of 
a pecular resinoid principle, called guaiacin or guaiacic acid, 
which is decomposed by the mineral acids. 

Effects and Uses. — Guaiacum wood and guaiac are stimulant 
diaphoretics, and in large doses cathartic. They are princi- 
pally used for their alterative virtues in chronic rheumatism, 
secondary syphilis, and skin diseases ; guaiac has been used as 
a laxative. They are considered also to possess emmenagogue 
properties, and are employed in amenorrhea and dysmenor- 
rhcea. 

Administration. — Guaiacum wood is used only as an ingre- 
dient in the compound decoction and syrup of sarsaparilla. Dose 
of guaiac, gr. x to gr. xxx, in pill or emulsion, sometimes com- 
bined with alkalies. The tincture (six troyounces to alcohol 
Oij), and ammoniated tincture (six troyounces to ar. sp. of am- 
monia Ojss), are much used in chronic rheumatism ; the former 
is given also in amenorrhoea ; dose, f 5j three or four times a 
day. They are decomposed by water, and should be adminis- 
tered in mucilage, syrup, or milk. 

MEZEREUM MEZEREON. 

Mezereon is the bark of Daphne Mezereum and Daphne 
Gnidium (Nat. Ord. Thymelacese), European shrubs, which 
grow to the height of four or five feet. The root-bark is 
the part employed in Great Britain, but the bark of our 
shops, which is brought' from Germany, is the stem-bark. 
It comes in strips, from two to four feet long, and an 
inch or less in breadth, folded in bundles, or wrapped in 
the shape of balls. It has a thin, grayish, or reddish-brown, 
wrinkled epidermis, and a tough, pliable, whitish inner bark. 
When fresh, it has a faint nauseous smell, but, when dry, 
it is nearly inodorous. Its taste is at first sweetish, afterwards 



244 MATERIA MEDICA. 

highly acrid. It yields its virtues to water and alcohol, and 
contains a peculiar crystalline principle, called daphnin, and 
a resin, to which it owes its acridity 

Effects and Uses. — The topical action of mezereon is irritant 
and vesicant. When swallowed in large quantities, it is highly 
acrid ; in medicinal doses it promotes the action of the secreting 
and exhaling organs, particularly the skin and kidneys. It is 
chiefly employed in conjunction with sarsaparilla (in the com- 
pound decoction, &c), as an alterative diaphoretic, in rheumatic, 
syphilitic, and cutaneous affections. As a masticatory, it has 
been chewed for the relief of paralysis of the muscles of deglu- 
tition. The ointment (4 troyounces mixed with 14 troyounces 
of lard melted with 2 troyounces of white wax) is used as a 
stimulating application to blistered surfaces and indolent ulcers ; 
it is not now officinal. 



SASSAFRAS RADICIS CORTEX — BARK OF SASSAFRAS 

ROOT. 

This is the bark of the root of Sassafras officinale (Nat. 
Ord. Lauracese), an indigenous tree of middling size. The 
bark is found in the shops in small irregular pieces of a cinna- 
mon color, sometimes invested with a brownish epidermis. It 
has a highly fragrant odor, and a sweetish aromatic taste. Its 
virtues are extracted by water and alcohol, and reside in a 
volatile oil (oleum sassafras). The oil is said to act as a physi- 
ological antidote against tobacco. 

Effects and Uses. — Sassafras bark is a mild stimulant alte- 
rative diaphoretic, used chiefly in combination with sarsaparilla. 
Its principal virtues are probably aromatic. Dose of the oil, 
two to ten drops. (For Sassafras Pith, see Demulcents.) 

ORDER IV. — DIURETICS. 

Diuretics (from dta, thoroughly, and ovpeu, I maize water), are 
medicines which excite the secretion of urine. The flow of 
urine may be promoted indirectly, by increasing the quantity 



DIUEETICS. 245 

of fluid taken into the stomach, or by the removal of causes 
which check its secretion, or by mental emotion, a cool tem- 
perature, &c. It is promoted directly by the use of medicinal 
agents which specifically affect the kidneys ; they are termed 
diuretics. A large proportion of diuretic medicines are found 
among the agents which influence other secretions, particularly 
diaphoretics. The functions of transpiration and urination are 
to some extent vicarious, and the same articles will prove 
diaphoretic or diuretic, as their action may be directed to the 
skin or kidneys. External warmth and warm drinks de- 
termine the action of such medicines to the skin ; and, on the 
other hand, if the skin be kept cool, and cool diluents freely 
administered, the secretion from the kidneys is promoted. 

Blennorrhetics, or medicines which have a special action on 
the mucous membranes, exert also a diuretic influence — pro- 
bably the result of the stimulating impression which they make 
on the mucous membrane of the urinary passages. When the 
action of the kidneys is obstructed by disease of the heart, 
sedatives prove diuretic, by their tranquillizing influence on the 
action of the heart. In cases of obstruction of the portal sys- 
tem, mercurials increase the efficacy of the diuretics proper ; 
and also cathartics, by stimulating the flow of bile and of the 
pancreatic juice. 

The principal therapeutic employment of diuretics is to pro- 
mote the absorption of dropsical effusions. They are also useful, 
in nephritic disorders attended with obstructed secretion ; in 
stone or gravel, with the view of rendering the urine more 
dilute ; and they may be resorted to as evacuants, to reduce 
inflammation. 

As diuretics act by becoming absorbed, they should be 
administered in a very diluted state to prevent a cathartic 
effect. 

The following groups of medicines, noticed under other 
heads, are employed also as diuretics : 

1. The Saline and Ethereal Refrigerants (see p. 193). 

2. The Alkaline Carbonates (see Antacids) ; and the Alkaline 
Salts, which contain a vegetable acid, as the acetates, citrates. 



246 MATERIA MEDICA. 

and tartrates. The acid tartrate of potassa, or cream of tar- 
tar (see p. 219), is a very active diuretic. 

PotasSvE Acetas (Acetate of Potassa). This salt, formerly 
termed sal diureticus, from its decided diuretic action, is made 
by saturating acetic acid with carbonate of potassa. It is white, 
when pure, of a warm, pungent taste, very deliquescent, and 
soluble in water and alcohol. In small doses, it is diuretic ; in 
larger doses, gently cathartic. It is a good deal employed as 
a diuretic in dropsies, as an antacid in acute rheumatism, and 
has also been found useful as an alterative in cutaneous affec- 
tions. As is the case with all the alkaline salts containing 
vegetable acids, the acid of this salt is decomposed in the sys- 
tem into carbonic acid. Dose, 3j to 5j> three or four times 
a day. ; 

3. Sedatives (see p. 183), particularly Digitalis (see p. 
183), which is very much employed in cardiac dropsies, in com- 
bination with squill. 

4. Blennorrhetics (see p. 255), particularly the oleoresins. 

5. Most of the Stimulating Diaphoretics. 

6. Among Astringents, Uva ursi (p. 150), and Pipsissewa 
(p. 151). 

SPECIAL DIURETICS. 
SCILLA — SQUILL. 

Squill is the bulb of Scilla maritima (Nat. Ord. Liliacese), a 
perennial plant, which grows on the shores of the Mediterra- 
nean. It has fibrous roots, attached to a roundish-ovate bulb, 
from which both the leaves and flower-stem spring directly, the 
latter appearing first ; the leaves are broad-lanceolate, and from 
twelve to eighteen inches long ; the stem is about two feet high, 
and bears pale, yellowish-green flowers. 

The fresh bulb is pyriform, of the size of the fist to that of a 
child's head, and consists of thick, fleshy, concentric scales, 
attenuated at their edges, and attached to a rudimentary stem ; 
the outer scales are very thin and papery. Two kinds of squill 
bulbs are met with, the white and the red, which differ only in 



SQUILL. 247 

the color of their scales, and are identical in medicinal virtues. 
Both abound in a viscid, acrid juice, which is very much dimin- 
ished by drying, with little loss of medicinal power. For im- 
portation, squill is usually sliced and dried, and is found in the 
shops in white or yellowish-white pieces, which, when drv, are 
brittle, but, when moist, flexible. They absorb moisture readily, 
and should be kept in well-stoppered bottles. They have a feeble 
odor, a bitter, nauseous, acrid taste, and yield their virtues to 
water, alcohol, and vinegar. Two active principles have been 
found in squill : one an acrid, poisonous, resinoid substance, 
soluble in alcohol and not in ether, the other, a bitter, yellow 
principle, soluble in water and alcohol ; the bitter principle is 
much less powerful. 

Physiological Effects. — In small doses, squill promotes secre- 
tion from the mucous membranes and the kidneys — its diuretic 
effect being much the most marked and constant. In larger 
doses, it excites nausea, vomiting, and occasionally purging ; 
and, in excessive doses, it acts as an acro-narcotic poison — gr. 
xxiv having proved fatal. 

Medicinal Uses. — Squill is employed principally in the treat- 
ment of dropsy ; it should not be used, however, in cases com- 
plicated with granular disease of the kidneys or inflammation 
of the bladder. Digitalis is much prescribed in combination 
with squill in the treatment of cardiac dropsies, and calomel is 
often added with a view to its action on the absorbents. As a 
blennorrhetic expectorant, squill is an excellent remedy in 
chronic and subacute bronchial affections ; it is, however, im- 
proper in inflammatory cases. As an emetic, squill is too 
dangerous for general use; but it forms an ingredient in some 
emetic preparations administered in croup. 

Administration. — Dose, as a diuretic or expectorant, gr. j, 
repeated and gradually increased till nausea supervenes. Gr. 
vj to gr. xij will vomit. Of the acetum scillos (four troyounces 
to diluted acetic acid Oij), the dose is Tt[xxx to f5ij 5 of the 
syrup, made by dissolving 24 troyounces of sugar in a pint of 
vinegar of squill, at a gentle heat, f 5j ; of the compound syrup, 
known as hive syrup (which is prepared by percolation, by first 



248 MATERIA MEDICA. 

making a solution of seneka and squill, in diluted alcohol and 
water, converting it into a syrup, and dissolving in it tartar 
emetic, one grain of which is contained in every ounce of the 
syrup), 10 drops to f 5j, according to the age ; of the tincture 
(four troyounces to diluted alcohol Oij), 20 to 40 drops. The 
compound pills of squill contain also ginger, ammoniac, and 
soap, and are used as a stimulant expectorant ; dose, one pill 
three or four times a day, each pill containing half a grain of 
squill and one grain of ammoniac. 



COLCHICUM. 

Colchici Radix, Colchicum Root ; Colchici Semen, Colchicum Seed. 

Colchicum autumnale, or Meadow-Saffron (N'at. Ord. Melan- 
thacese), is a small, biennial, bulbous plant, which grows wild, 
in moist meadows, in England and other temperate parts of 
Europe. The bulb, or corm, as it is botanically termed, ap- 
pears in midsummer as the lateral offset from the corm of the 
preceding year, and sends up the flower-stem in the autumn — 
the leaves and fruit following in the succeeding spring. The 
leaves are broadly lanceolate, about five inches long ; the 
flowers of a lilac or light-purple color ; and the fruit oblong, 
elliptical, and three-celled. 

The corms and seeds are the portions used medicinally. 
The corms are gathered in July, just before the sprouting of 
the flower from the young corm. They are somewhat like 
tulip bulbs in appearance, but solid and not composed of 
scales. They are covered by an external brown membrane, 
and an inner reddish-yellow one. Internally, they are white, 
fleshy, and solid, and contain an acrid, bitter, milky juice. 
As found in the shops, they are in the dried state, sometimes 
whole, but usually cut into transverse slices about an eighth of 
an inch thick, with a notch on one side, and deprived of the 
outer brown membrane. They have a hircine odor, and a 
bitter, hot, and acrid taste. The seeds are brown, about the 
size of black mustard-seeds, inodorous, and have a bitter, acrid 



COLCHICUM. 249 

taste; they are less apt to be injured by drying than the 
conns. 

Colchicum corms and seeds yield their virtues to vinegar 
and alcohol ; they both contain a peculiar non-crystallizable 
alkaloid active principle, soluble in water and alcohol, but 
insoluble in ether, termed colchicia, (C 34 H 19 NO 10 ), which is a 
powerful poison. 

Physiological Effects. — Colchicum is a local irritant. Taken 
internally, in small doses, it stimulates the secretions gene- 
rally; in larger doses, it produces nausea, vomiting, and 
purging, and commonly a reduction of the frequency of the 
pulse ; in excessive doses, it is an acro-narcotic poison, 
producing death by a sedative action on the heart. Although 
placed among the diuretics, colchicum does not evince a more 
decided action on the kidneys than on other secretions, as 
those of the skin, liver, and mucous membranes. 

Medicinal Uses. — Colchicum has long enjoyed a high 
reputation in the treatment of gout ; and, although its modus 
medendi is rather obscure, it is universally admitted to possess 
a more' decided control over the disease than any other 
remedy. Its efficacy has been attributed to a combined seda- 
tive, anodyne, and eccritic action ; but, besides this, an 
influence on the blood probably contributes to its anti-arthritic 
effect. It is usually administered in repeated doses, till an 
effect is produced on the bowels ; Epsom salt and magnesia 
are often combined with it, as in the celebrated Scudamores 
draught (magnesia, gr. xv to xx ; sulphate of magnesia, 5j to 
5ij ; vinegar of colchicum, f5j to f5lj, in any pleasant vehicle). 
An excellent combination, in the treatment of gout, is 
colchicum (wine of the seed, fgi), with iodide of potassium (5ij), 
dissolved in cinnamon water (f Sviij), — dose, fgss, three times 
a day, until purgation is produced. When it is desired to act 
on the kidneys and skin rather than the bowels, opiates are 
sometimes given with colchicum. In rheumatism, it is also 
employed, but with less marked success than in gout. It has 
been occasionally resorted to as a diuretic in dropsy, as a 
sedative in febrile and inflammatory diseases, as an anthelmin- 
tic, as an expectorant, and in some nervous affections. 



250 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Administration. — Dose of the corrn or seeds, in powder, 
gr. ij to gr. viij ; the seeds are preferred. The liquid prepara- 
tions, which are more generally used than the powder, are : 
The vinegar (acetum) (two trojounces of the root to diluted 
acetic acid Oij), dose, 30 drops to f5\j ; wine of the root 
(twelve troyounces to sherry wine Oij), dose, 1T|x to f5j ; wine 
of the seed (four troyounces to wine Oij), dose, f5i-ij ; tincture 
(four troyounces of the seed to diluted alcohol Oij), dose, f5ss 
to f5ij- An acetic extract of the root is also employed — dose, 
gr. i-ij ; and a fluid extract of the seed, and also the root — 
doses, 4 to 12 drops. 



ERIGERON — FLEABANE. 

Three varieties of Erigeron are officinal : E. Canadense, or 
Canada Fleabane, E. heterophyllum, or Various-leaved Flea- 
bane, and E. Philadelphicum, or Philadelphia Fleabane (Nat. 
Ord. Aster acese). They are herbaceous indigenous plants, two 
or three feet high, with ovate or lanceolate toothed leaves, and 
white, blue or purple flowers. The whole herb is officinal. Can- 
ada Fleabane has an agreeable odor, and a bitter, acrid, somewhat 
astringent taste. It contains bitter extractive, tannic and gallic 
acids, and volatile oil ; and is diuretic, tonic, and astringent. 
The oil of Canada Fleabane possesses haemostatic properties, 
and has been used in hemorrhagic dysentery and uterine he- 
morrhage — dose, 5 to 10 drops. Various-leaved and Phila- 
delphia Fleabane, popularly known as scabious, have an aromatic 
odor, and a slightly bitterish taste. Their most striking medi- 
cinal action is diuretic, and they have long been favorite reme- 
dies in dropsical and nephritic affections. An infusion or 
decoction, to the amount of a 'pint (containing a troyounce of 
the herb), may be taken daily. 

APOCYNUM CANNABINUM INDIAN HEMP. 

This is an indigenous herbaceous plant {Nat. Ord. Apocyna- 
cese), growing to the height of two or three feet, with oblong- 



INDIAN HEMP. 



251 



ovate leaves, and small, greenish, campanulate flowers. The 
ROOT is the officinal portion ; it is of a yellowish-brown color 
when young, and of a dark-chestnut when old, has a strong 

Fig, 22. 




odor, and a nauseous acrid, bitter taste. The fresh root. 
when wounded, pours out a milky juice : it yields its virtues to 
water and alcohol, and contains tannic and gallic acids, gum, 
resin, a bitter principle, &c, and a peculiar active principle 
termed apocynin. 

Effects and Uses. — Indian hemp (which is not to be con- 
founded with Cannabis Indica, p. 68), is an emeto-cathartic, 
diuretic, diaphoretic, and sedative. It is chiefly employed in 
the treatment of dropsy, in the form of decoction (half a troy- 






252 MATERIA MEDICA. 

ounce to water Ojss, boiled to Oj), of which f oi-ij may be taken 
two or three times a day. 



TARAXACUM — DANDELION. 

Taraxacum Dens-leonis, or Dandelion (Nat. Ord. Cichoracese), 
is a small herbaceous, perennial plant, common to most parts 
of the world, and found abundantly throughout the United 
States. It has a fusiform root, which sends up numerous long, 
sinuated, bright-green leaves, and flower-stems, about six inches 
high, bearing golden-yellow flowers. The ROOT is the oflicinal 
portion, and should be gathered in the autumn. In the fresh 

Fig. 23. 




state, it is several inches long, branched, fleshy, of a light- 
brown color externally, whitish within, and abounds in a milky 
juice ; the fresh root is preferable for use. When dried, it is 
shrunken, wrinkled, and brittle. It is without smell, but has a 
bitter taste. Boiling water extracts its virtues, which depend 
on a peculiar bitter crystallizable principle, termed taraxacin, 
soluble in boiling water, alcohol, and ether. 

Effects and Uses. — Taraxacum is diuretic and slightly ape- 
rient, with some tonic action, and a special determination to 
the liver. It is a valuable remedy in hepatic dropsies, and is 
also employed in dyspepsia, accompanied by derangement of the 
liver. It is given in the form of infusion (two troyounces to 



CARROT SEED. 253 

boiling water Oj), — dose fgij, three times a day; extract (an 
inspissated juice, which should not be kept above a year), — 
dose 3j to 5j three times a day; &ncl fluid extract, — dose, f5i- 
ij, three times a day. 



JUNIPERUS — JUNIPER. 

The fruit, or berries, of Juniperus communis (Nat Orel. 
Pinacese), an evergreen European shrub, naturalized in the 
United States, are used as adjuvants to the more active diure- 
tics. When dried, they are about the size of a pea, and of a 
blackish-purple color ; they are given in infusion (a troyounce 
to boiling water Oj). Their virtues depend on a volatile oil 
(Oleum Juxiperi), the dose of which is five to fifteen drops, two 
or three times a day. The compound spirit of Juniper (a flui- 
drachm and a half of the oil, with 10 minims each of the oils of 
caraway and fennel, dissolved in 8 pints of diluted alcohol), 
is a pleasant addition to stimulating diuretic infusions, — dose, 
f5i-ij. 

CAR OTA- — CARROT SEED. 

Daucus Carota, or Wild Carrot (Nat Orel Apiaceae), is a 
very common indigenous plant, which is found also wild in 
Europe. It has a biennial spindle-shaped root, an erect branch- 
ing stem two or three feet high, tripinnate leaves with narrow, 
pointed leaflets, and small white flowers, arranged in umbels. 
The fruit or seeds, which are the officinal portion, are light, 
of a brownish color, an oval shape, convex and bristly on one 
side, and flat on the other. They have an aromatic odor, a 
warm, pungent, bitterish taste, and contain a volatile oil, on 
which their virtues depend. 

Effects and Uses.— Carrot-seeds are aromatic and diuretic, 
and are a good deal employed in dropsical and nephritic affec- 
tions, agreeing well with the stomach, from their aromatic oil. 
The infusion is a popular remedy for the relief of strangury 



254 MATERIA MEDICA. 

from blisters. Dose, 5ss to 5j, or an infusion (half a troyounce 
to water Oj), ad libitum. 

The root of this plant possesses the same properties as 
the seeds. The root of the cultivated plant, the well-known 
garden carrot, is employed as an application to sloughing ulcers. 



CAXTHARIS — SPANISH FLIES. 

The properties, &c, of cantharides will be noted fully under 
the head of Irritants (subdivision Epispastics). Taken inter- 
nally, they sometimes prove diuretic, and generally excite irri- 
tation of the genito-urinary passages, as strangury, priapism, 
&c. ; and in overdoses, act as an acro-narcotic poison. They are 
employed in atonic dropsies, incontinence of urine, amenorrhea, 
seminal weakness, impotence, &c. Dose, gr. i-ij, twice a day, 
in pill. They are most commonly administered in tincture (a 
troy ounce to diluted alcohol Oij), — dose, gtt. x, or more, three 
or four times a day, till strangury supervenes. 

The following medicines, though less frequently resorted to 
than the foregoing, possess very decided diuretic properties, 
and may be employed with advantage in the treatment of drop- 
sical and nephritic affections : 

The root of Hydrastis Canadensis, or Yellow Root 
{Nat. Ord. Ranunculaceae), a small indigenous plant, which 
contains the alkaloid berberina (previously noticed), and an- 
other alkaloid hydrastia, is a very efficacious diuretic in pro- 
moting the discharge of calculi from the kidneys. 

The root of Delphinium Consolida, or Larkspur {Nat 
Ord. Ranunculaceae), a European plant, cultivated in our gar- 
dens, and to some extent naturalized. 

The fresh tops (and also the seeds) of Cytisus Scoparius 
or Broom, {Nat Ord. Fabaceae), a European shrub, cultivated 
in our gardens. 

The root of Petroselixum Sativum, or Parsley {Nat. 
Ord. Apiaceae), a European plant, cultivated in our vegetable 



BLENNORRHETICS. 255 

gardens, for its leaves. Parsley contains a peculiar princi- 
ple, termed apiol, a yellowish oily liquid, which has been used 
in amenorrhea and dysmenorrhea, in the dose of four grains, 
morning and evening. 

The root of Cochlearia Armoracia, or Horse-radish 
(Nat. Ord. Brassicacese,) a European plant, cultivated here for 
its root, which is used as a condiment. 



ORDER V. — BLENNORRHETICS. 

Blennorrhetics (from piewa, mucus, and peu, I flow), are 
medicines which promote the secretion of the mucous mem- 
branes. They are employed therapeutically in morbid con- 
ditions of these membranes, with a view to the restoration of 
healthy action, in cases of deficient, abnormal, or excessive 
secretion. 

"When administered with the object of stimulating the secre- 
tion of mucus from the bronchial or laryngeal membrane, this 
class of agents is termed expectorants. They are prescribed in 
the subacute and chronic forms of bronchitis and laryngitis, 
and in the declining stages of the acute forms of these affec- 
tions and pneumonia. In the early or inflammatory stages of 
acute bronchitis and laryngitis, the stimulating expectorants 
are inadmissible, until nauseants and depletion have been 
resorted to. 

The blennorrhetics are less employed in gastro-enteric affec- 
tions than in those of other mucous membranes, owing to their 
tendency to produce catharsis. Several of the oleoresins are, 
however, used with advantage in certain forms of chronic diar- 
rhoea, and the oil of turpentine is highly esteemed in the treat- 
ment of the diarrhoea of typhoid fever. 

The oleoresinous articles of this group are extensively em- 
ployed in diseases of the urino-genital mucous membranes, — 
gonorrhoea, gleet, leucorrhoea, incontinence of urine, cysti- 
tis, &c. 

The following are the articles chiefly resorted to for .their 
influence on the mucous membranes : 



256 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



SENEGA — SENEKA. 



Polygala Senega, or Seneka Snakeroot (Nat. Ord. Polyga- 
laceae), is a small indigenous plant, found in all parts of the 
United States, but most abundantly in the South and West. 

Fig. 24. 




) 



It has a perennial, branching root, several erect annual stems, 
about a foot in height, alternate lanceolate leaves, and small, 
whitish flowers, arranged in a terminal spike. The root is the 
officinal portion. It occurs in the shops in twisted pieces, vary- 
ing in thickness from the size of a quill to that of the little 
finger, attached to a knotty head, and marked with a ridge 
along their whole length, and numerous annular protuberances. 
The cortical portion is hard, resinous, of a yellowish-brown 
color, and contains the active qualities of the root. The cen- 
tral ligneous portion is white and inert. The odor of seneka 
is peculiar and disagreeable, but faint in the dried root ; the 
taste is at first mucilaginous and sweetish, but afterwards be- 
comes acrid and very irritating. 



BLACK SNAKEROOT. 257 

The virtues of seneka are extracted by cold and hot water 
and alcohol. It contains a peculiar acrid acid principle called 
polygalic acid, on which its activity chiefly depends. 

Effects and Uses. — Seneka, in small doses, is an active ex- 
citant of the mucous membranes and secretions generally, and 
in large doses proves emetic and cathartic. It is chiefly pre- 
scribed as a stimulating expectorant in chronic and subacute 
bronchial affections, and in the latter stages of acute bronchitis, 
pneumonia, &c. As an ingredient in the compound syrup of 
squill, it is much employed in the treatment of croup, but, 
except in some such combination with tartar emetic or other 
emetic nauseant, it is scarcely admissible in the early stages of 
this disease. Seneka is also thought to possess emmenagogue 
properties, and is highly extolled by many practitioners in the 
treatment of amenorrhoea. It has been occasionally used as a 
diuretic in dropsies, and, in emeto-cathartic doses, has been 
found useful in rheumatism. 

Administration. — Dose, in powder, gr. x. to 3j ; but it is 
chiefly given in decoction (a troyounce boiled for fifteen minutes in 
water enough to make the decoction measure Oj), dose, f §ij, three 
or four times a day. An alcoholic extract is given in the dose 
of from one to three grains ; and a syrup is also used, in the 
dose of f 5i-ij (made by percolating four troyounces of seneka 
with two pints of diluted alcohol, evaporating to half a pint, 
and dissolving in this tincture fifteen troyounces of sugar by a 
gentle heat). 



CIMICIFUGA — BLACK SNAKEROOT. 

Cimicifuga racemosa, Black Snakeroot, or Cohosh [Nat Or J. 
Ranunculacese), is a very common indigenous perennial plant, 
growing to the height of from four to eight feet, with termite 
leaves, oblong-ovate, incised, and toothed leaflets, and small, 
white flowers disposed in a long raceme. The ROOT is the part 
employed. It consists of a rugged, blackish-brown caudex, 
from a third of an inch to an inch in thickness, often several 

17 



258 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



inches in length, furnished with numerous slender radicles. 
Internally, its color is whitish ; it has a peculiar, faint, disa- 
greeable odor, and a bitter, somewhat astringent taste. It im- 




parts its virtues to boiling water, and contains gum, starch, 
resin, tannic and gallic acids, salts, and a portion of volatile 
oil. 

Effects and Uses. — The effects of cimicifuga are not very 
accurately known, but it is undoubtedly an active stimulant of 
the secretions, particularly those of the mucous membranes, 
skin, and kidneys, with, probably, in large doses, a sedative 









GARLIC. 259 

and antispasmodic action on the nervous system. It has been 
employed with great advantage as an expectorant in chronic 
bronchial affections, and even phthisis pulmonalis, and has 
been also used as a diaphoretic in rheumatism, and as a diure- 
tic in dropsies. As an antispasmodic in chorea, it enjoys a 
high reputation, and it is also recommended in the spasmodic 
forms of hysteria, particularly when connected with amenor- 
rhoea. A saturated alcoholic solution has been used, with good 
effect, as an application to the eyelids in ophthalmia. 

Administration. — Dose, in powder, 3j to 5j ; a decoction 
and acetous tincture (though not officinal) are employed. Of 
the fluid extract, the dose is f5ss-j. 



ALLIUM — GARLIC. 

Allium sativum [Nat. Ord. Liliaceae), is a small, perennial, 
bulbous plant, which grows wild in the south of Europe, and 
is cultivated in all parts of the world. The bulb is the 
portion used. As found in the shops, it is somewhat spherical 
in form, about an inch in diameter, with a portion of the stem 
attached, covered with a white, membranous envelope, and 
consists of five or six smaller bulbs, of a curved, oblong shape, 
called cloves of garlic. They have a strong, irritating, charac- 
teristic odor, and a bitter, acrid taste. Water, alcohol, and 
vinegar extract their virtues, which depend on an essential oil, 
which is of a yellow color, very volatile and irritating ; it is a 
sulphuret of a peculiar radical, termed allyl (C 6 H 5 ). 

Effects and Uses. — Garlic is a local irritant and rubefacient, 
and, taken internally, quickens the circulation and stimulates 
the secretions generally. It is a good deal employed as an 
expectorant in chronic and subacute catarrhal affections, 
particularly in infantile cases, and, occasionally, as a stomachic 
in flatulence, and as a diuretic in atonic dropsies. Externally, 
it is used as a revulsive rubefacient to the feet, as a resolvent 
of indolent tumors, and as a liniment in infantile convulsions. 

Administration. — A clove may be swallowed entire, or cut 



260 MATERIA MEDICA. 

into small pieces. Dose of the fresh bulbs, 5i-ij, in pill; of 
the juice, f5ss, mixed with sugar ; of the syrup (made by mace- 
rating 6 troyounces of garlic in 10 fluidounces of diluted 
acetic acid, expressing, mixing the residue with 6 fluidounces 
more of diluted acetic acid, expressing, and dissolving in the 
expressed liquid 24 troyounces of sugar), f3j, for children. 



SCILLA — SQUILL. 

Squill, already noticed among diuretics, is one of the most 
powerful and valuable stimulating expectorants in the Materia 
Medica. (For properties, doses, preparations, &c, see p. 246). 



TE RE BIN THIN A — TURPENTINE. 

The term turpentine is applied to liquid or concrete vegetable 
juices, consisting of resin combined with a peculiar essential 
oil, called oil of turpentine. Two kinds of turpentine are re- 
cognized by the U. S. Pharmacopoeia : 1. The common Ameri- 
can white turpentine, which is procured chiefly from Pinus 
palustris {Nat. Ord. Pinaceae), a large indigenous evergreen 
tree of our Southern States, where it is called Long-leaved Pine, 

Yellow Pine, and Pitch Pine, and in part also from Pinus 
Tseda, found in Virginia, and other species of Pinus. 2. Can- 
ada turpentine, kept in the shops, under the name of Canada 
balsam or balsam of fir, the product of Abies balsamea, the 
American Silver Fir, or Balm of Gilead Tree {Nat. Ord. Pina- 
ceae), a handsome tree about 40 feet in height, inhabiting the 
northern portions of North America. Many other varieties 
of turpentine are known in commerce, as Bordeaux turpentine, 

Venice turpentine, Chian turpentine, &c. 

White turpentine comes from North Carolina and other 
Southern States, and is collected from excavations made in the 
trunks of trees, into which the turpentine runs in the mild 
weather. It is yellowish-white, and somewhat translucent, 
semi-fluid in summer, firm and hard in winter, but becoming 



OIL OF TURPENTINE. 261 

permanently hard by exposure to the air, and has a peculiar 
aromatic odor, and a warm, pungent, bitterish taste. Canada 
turpentine comes from Canada and Maine. It is procured by 
breaking the vesicles, which are found between the bark and 
wood of the trees, and collecting the liquid contents in a bottle. 
When fresh, it has the consistence of honey, but gradually 
solidifies by age. It is yellow, transparent, tenacious, of a 
peculiar, pleasant terebinthinate odor, and a slightly bitter, 
acrid taste. 

Chemical Constituents. — The "turpentines yield, by distilla- 
tion, a volatile oil, known as oil of turpentine, and leave a 
residue consisting exclusively of resin. Both the oil and resin 
are officinal. The turpentines are inflammable, nearly insolu- 
ble in water, but almost wholly soluble in alcohol and ether. 

Physiological Effects. — The local operation of the terebin- 
thinates is irritant. When applied to the skin, they produce a 
rubefacient effect, and when swallowed, in large doses, promote 
the peristalic motion of the intestines. Taken internally, in 
small doses, they are absorbed, and prove excitant to the vas- 
cular system and the secretions generally, especially the 
mucous membranes ; they communicate a violet odor to the 
urine. The activity of the terebinthinates depends on their 
volatile oil. 

Medicinal Uses. — Turpentine is employed chiefly in diseases 
of the various mucous membranes, as gonorrhoea, gleet, leu- 
corrhoea, cystorrhoea, chronic bronchitis, and chronic mucous 
diarrhoea. It is also used in rheumatic complaints ; and, in 
cathartic doses, in cases of ascarides, constipation, and colic. 

Administration. — Dose, as a blennorrhetic, 3j to 5j, m pill, 
emulsion, or electuary ; as an anthelmintic or cathartic, half a 
troyounce to an ounce, in emulsion. The white turpentine is 
generally used in this country. 

Oleum Terebinthin,£ {Oil of Turpentine), (C 20 H 16 ) com- 
monly called Spirit of Turpentine, is the active principle of 
turpentine, obtained by distillation. It has already been 
noticed under the head of aromatic stimulants (p. 175). Its 



262 MATERIA MEDICA. 

effects and medicinal uses are the same as those of turpentine, 
for which it is usually substituted in practice. Locally, it 
acts as a rubefacient. When swallowed in large doses, as 
f Si-ij, it commonly passes off by the bowels ; and, taken in 
small doses, it is absorbed, and stimulates the circulation 
and the secretions of the mucous membranes, kidneys, and 
skin. It often produces strangury and considerable irritation 
of the urino-genital passages. In large doses, it is employed 
as an anthelmintic and cathartic, and is much used as a 
clyster for the relief of tympanites. In small doses, it is 
greatly prescribed in chronic discharges from the various 
mucous membranes ; in the latter stages of typhoid fever 
as a combined stimulant and blenorrhetic ; as a diaphoretic 
in rheumatism and neuralgia ; in infantile diabetes, nephritic 
disorders, dropsy, &c. As a rubefacient, it is a valuable 
counter-irritant in numerous diseases. 

Dose, gtt. v-xxx, repeated, as a blenorrhetic stimulant ; fSss 
-f oj\ as a cathartic enema, or anthelmintic, in emulsion. Lini- 
mentum terebinthince (oil of turpentine Oss, melted with resin 
cerate twelve troyounces), is used as an application to burns 
and scalds. 

Pix Liquida (Tar), is an impure turpentine, procured by 
burning, from the wood of Pinus palustris, and other species 
of Pinus. It is a brownish-black, viscid, semi-liquid substance, 
of a peculiar empyreumatic odor, and a bitterish, resinous, 
somewhat acid taste — soluble in alcohol, ether, and the volatile 
and fixed oils. It consists of resin, united with acetic acid, 
oil of turpentine, and various volatile, empyreumatic products. 
By distillation, it yields pyroligneous acid and oil of tar — the 
residuum being pitch. 

The oil of tar contains, besides oil of turpentine, creasote 
(see p. 154), and other principles. 

Effects and Uses. — Tar resembles the turpentines in its 
effects, and is employed in chronic catarrhal affections and 
other diseases of the mucous membranes. Its vapor has 
been employed in bronchitis ; and externally, it is an excellent 



COPAIBA. 263 

application in tinea capitis, psoriasis, and other cutaneous 
affections. Dose, 5ss to 5j, several times a day, in pill or 
electuary ; or tar water — aqua picis liquidce — (made by digest- 
ing tar Oj with water Oiv), may be taken in the quantity of 
Oi-ij, daily. The ointment (unguentum picis liquidai), is made 
by mixing equal parts of tar and melted suet. 

Resina [Resin), commonly called rosin, is the' residuum 
after the distillation of the oil from white turpentine. It 
is a yellowish-brown, semi-transparent, solid,' brittle substance, 
with a slight terebinthinate odor and taste — insoluble in 
water, soluble in ether, alcohol, and the essential oils, readily 
uniting by fusion with wax and the fixed oils, and forming 
soluble soaps with alkalies. When agitated with water, in a 
state of fusion, it becomes opaque and white. It is not 
used internally, but is extensively employed in the formation 
of plasters and ointments, to which it communicates great 
adhesiveness and slightly stimulant properties. 

Ceratum Resince (Resin Cerate), commonly called basilicon 
ointment, is made by melting resin (5 parts), lard (8 parts), 
and yellow wax (2 parts), together: it is an excellent mild 
stimulant application to burns, blistered surfaces, &c. Com- 
pound Resin Cerate, made by melting 12 troyounces of resin, 
suet, and yellow wax, each, with 6 troyounces of turpentine, 
and 7 troyounces of flaxseed oil, is a good stimulant cerate, 
very popular under the name of Deshlers Salve. Umplastrum 
Resinai (Resin Plaster), made by melting one part of resin 
with six parts of lead plaster, is the well-known adhesive 
plaster, used for retaining the edges of wounds in contact, 
&c. 

COPAIBA. 

Copaiba is the juice of several species of Copaifera (Nat. 
Ord. Amyridacese), large trees peculiar to South America. 
C. officinalis has been thought to be a principal source of 
copaiba, but it yields little of that now in use, and most of the 



264 MATERIA MEDICA. 

copaiba of commerce is probably derived from C. multijuga, 
which grows in the province of Para, in Brazil. The juice is ob- 
tained from incisions in the stems of the trees : as it first exudes, 
it is clear, colorless, and very thin, but it soon acquires a 
thicker consistence, and a yellowish hue. As found in the 
shops, it is a clear, transparent liquid, of the consistence of 
olive oil, of a pale-yellow color, a peculiar agreeable smell, and 
a pungent, nauseous, acrid taste. By exposure to the air it 
acquires a deeper color and denser consistence. Copaiba is 
imported both from Brazil and Central America. 

Copaiba is insoluble in water, but soluble in alcohol, ether, 
and the volatile and fixed oils ; with alkalies and alkaline 
earths, it forms a soap. It is, chemically, an oleo-resin, with a 
minute portion of acetic acid; the volatile oil is officinal; the 
resin possesses acid properties, and is called eopaivic acid. By 
exposure to the air, copaiba gradually becomes darker and 
thicker, and finally hard and brittle, owing to the volatilization 
and oxidation of its oil. Copaiba was formerly called a balsam, 
but this title is incorrect, as it contains no benzoic or cinnamic 
acid. 

Effects and Uses. — The effects of copaiba are very analogous 
to those of the terebinthinates. In large doses, it proves ca- 
thartic, and occasionally emetic, and, in small doses, it is 
absorbed, communicating its peculiar odor to the secretions 
and exhalations, and stimulating the secretions from the mucous 
membranes and kidneys ; it is also a gentle excitant to the cir- 
culatory system. It is employed in diseases of the mucous 
membranes, particularly those of a chronic character, as chronic 
bronchitis, chronic diarrhoea, leucorrhoea, gonorrhoea, gleet, 
catarrh, and irritation of the bladder, &c. As a remedy in 
gonorrhoea, it has long enjoyed great popularity, and is given 
with advantage even in the earliest stages of the disorder. 

Administration. — Dose, gtt. xx to f 5j, three times a day, in 
emulsion, with some aromatic water, or in pills [pills of copaiba), 
made by mixing 2 troyounces of copaiba with 60 grains of 
magnesia, and dividing the mass after it concretes into 200 pills, 
or inclosed in capsules of gelatin. It is also administered as a 



CUBEB. 265 

clyster, in emulsion. Cubcb is frequently prescribed with co- 
paiba, in the treatment of gonorrhoea. 

Oleum Copaibje [Oil of Copaiba), (C 20 H 16 ), obtained by dis- 
tillation from copaiba, is usually colorless, with the odor and 
taste of copaiba, and produces the same effects on the system. 
Dose, gtt. x-xv, in emulsion, or dropped on sugar. 

CUBEB A CUBEB. 

Cubeb is the berries of Piper Cubeba (Nat. Orel. Piperaceae), 
a climbing, perennial plant of Java and other parts of the East 
Indies. The berries are gathered for use when unripe, and are 
dried. They are about the size of a small pea, of a blackish or 
grayish-brown color, a reticulated surface, and furnished with a 
stalk two or three inches long. The shell is hard, and contains 
a blackish seed, which is white and oily within. The odor of 
cubeb is aromatic ; the taste warm, acrid, and camphoraceous. 
The berries deteriorate by age, most rapidly in powder, owing 
to the escape of their volatile oil. Their most important con- 
stituents are a volatile oil (which is officinal), C 15 H 12 , a prin- 
ciple called cuhebin, and resinous matter. The oil is carmina- 
tive and stimulant, and the blennorrhetic and diuretic properties 
of cubeb reside chiefly in the resin ; cubebin is inert. 

Effects and Uses. — In large* doses, cubeb, like the other 
oleoresins, produces more or less gastro-enteric disturbance. 
In small doses, it is absorbed, and acts as a gentle excitant to 
the vascular system, with a very decided stimulant action on 
the mucous surfaces, particularly those of the urino-genital ap- 
paratus ; it also frequently proves diuretic. It is chiefly used 
in the treatment of gonorrhoea, and should be given in the early 
stage of the disease. In other mucous discharges, as chronic 
catarrh with profuse secretion, leucorrhcea, gleet, cystitis, &c, 
cubeb has also been employed with advantage. 

Administration. — Dose of the powder, 5i-iy\ three times a 
day, in gonorrhoea ; in chronic mucous disorders, smaller doses 
are given. The oil is often employed, but it does not possess 
the full virtues of cubeb— dose, gtt. x-xij, to be repeated and 



266 MATEEIA MEDICA. 

gradually increased ; it may be taken in emulsion, or dropped 
on sugar, or made into gelatinous capsules with oil of copaiba. 
The oleoresin contains both the volatile oil and resin, with a 
portion of cubebin, and is an excellent preparation — dose, 
Tt[y-xxx, suspended in water ; of the tincture (four troyounces 
to diluted alcohol Oij), the dose is f 5i-y, three times a day. 
Troches of cubeb are made with a fluidounce of the oleoresin, a 
fluidrachm of oil of sassafras, 3 troyounces each of sugar and 
gum Arabic, mixed with enough syrup of Tolu to form a mass, 
and divided into troches, each weighing ten grains. 



MATICO. 

This name is given to the leaves of Artanthe elongata (Nat. 
Ord. Piperaceae), a shrub of Peru. They are two or three 
inches long, by about an inch in breadth, oval-lanceolate and 
acuminate in shape, crenate, reticulate, bright-green on the 
upper surface, paler beneath, of a pleasant, aromatic odor, and 
a strong, spicy taste. They contain chlorophyll, resin, volatile 
oil, and a peculiar bitter principle, soluble in water and alcohol, 
termed maticin. 

Effects and Uses. — Matico is a pleasant aromatic tonic, with 
a special determination to the mucous membranes. It is used 
as an alterative stimulant in the entire circle of diseased mucous 
membranes, especially those of the urinary passages. It is 
also used internally as a hemostatic, and locally as a styptic. 
Dose, of the powder, 5ss-j, three times a day. An infusion 
(not officinal) may be made by dissolving a troyounce in a pint 
of boiling water — dose, a wineglassful. 



PAEEI^A — PAKEIRA BRAVA. 

Pareira Brava is stated by the U. S. Pharmacopoeia to be 
the root of Cissampelos Pareira (Nat. Ord. Menispermacese), 
a climbing plant of the West Indies and South America. But 
the origin of the Pareira Brava of the shops is still uncertain. 






buchu. 267 

It comes to us in wrinkled, twisted, or forked, cylindrical 
pieces, of variable thickness and length, covered with a thin, 
grayish-brown bark. The interior is ligneous, yellowish, porous, 
inodorous, and of a sweetish, nauseous, bitter taste. It im- 
parts its virtues to water, and contains a bitter alkaline prin- 
ciple, termed cissampelina, resin, fecula, &c. 

Effects and Uses. — Pareira Brava is an excellent remedy in 
chronic diseases of the urinary passages, particularly chronic 
inflammation or irritation of the bladder, with morbid secretion. 
It is said to be also tonic, aperient, and diuretic. Dose, in 
substance, 5ss to 5j- But it is more conveniently given in 
infusion (a troy ounce to boiling water Oj), dose, foi-ij- A 
fluid extract, although not officinal, is much used — dose from 
half a fluidrachm to a fluidrachm. 



BUCHU. 

This is the name, given to the leaves of Barosma crenata 
and other species of Barosma (Wat. Ord. Butacese), shrubby 
plants, growing at the Cape of Good Hope. As found in the 
shops, buchu leaves are from three-quarters of an inch to an 
inch and a half long, from three to five lines broad, elliptical, 
lanceolate-ovate, or obovate, sometimes pointed, sometimes 
blunt, notched and glandular at the edges, and of a green 
color, paler on the under surface. Three varieties are known, 
viz. : short or round buchu (derived from B. crenata), medium 
sized (from B. crenulata), and long buchu (from B. serratifolia). 
They have a strong, aromatic odor, and a bitterish taste, like 
that of mint. Water and alcohol extract their virtues, which 
depend on a volatile oil and extractive. 

Effects and Uses. — Buchu is a gentle stimulant to the secre- 
tions generally, particularly to the kidneys and urinary mucous 
membranes ; it may be made to act also as a diaphoretic. It 
is employed in chronic catarrh of the urethra and bladder, 
nephritic complaints, retention or incontinence of urine — as a 
diuretic, in dropsies — and as a diaphoretic in rheumatic and 
cutaneous complaints. Dose, of the powder, gr. xx-xxx ; of 



268 MATERIA MEDICA. 

the infusion (a troyounce to boiling water Oj), foi-ij- A fluid 
extract is officinal — dose, f5ss. 



MYRRH A — MYRRH. 

Myrrh is the concrete juice of Balsaniodendron Myrrha 
{Nat. Ord. Amyridacese), a small tree of Arabia Felix and 
Africa ; the juice exudes spontaneously and concretes upon the 
bark. It is imported from the East Indies, and occurs in 
small, semi-transparent, reddish-yellow fragments or tears — 
sometimes agglutinated together in larger masses — of irregular 
shape and size, an agreeable, peculiar odor, and a bitter, aro- 
matic taste. It is brittle and pulverizable, has a resinous frac- 
ture, and makes a light-yellowish powder. Inferior kinds of 
myrrh are darker and less translucent and odorous. Myrrh is 
a gum-resin, containing also a little volatile oil. It forms with 
water an emulsion, and is soluble in alcohol and ether. 

Effects and Uses. — Myrrh is a stimulant expectorant and 
emmenagogue, with some tonic effects. It is prescribed in 
chronic catarrhal and asthmatic affections, in which a combined 
corroborant and expectorant effect is desirable; and also in 
chlororis, amenorrhoea, &c. Chalybeates and aloes are fre- 
quently united with it in uterine affections. Locally, it is a 
good application to spongy gums, aphthous sore mouth, &c. 

Administration. — Dose, gr. x to 5ss, in powder or pill, or 
suspended in water, as in Mistura Ferri Composita (see p. 126). 
The tincture (three troyounces to alcohol Oij), is chiefly em- 
ployed externally — dose, internally, f5ss to f5j. Pills of Aloes 
and Myrrh, Compound Gralbanum Pills, and Compound Iron 
Pills, are officinal emmenagogue preparations of myrrh. 

BENZOINUM — BENZOIN. 

Benzoin is the concrete juice of Styrax Benzoin, or Ben- 
jamin Tree {Nat. Ord. Styraceae), a tall tree of Sumatra, Java, 
Borneo, and Siam. It is obtained by incisions in the bark, 
from which it readily exudes, afterwards hardening by ex- 



BENZOIC ACID. 2G9 

posure to the sun and air. Two kinds are known, the more 
valuable consisting chiefly of whitish tears, united by a reddish- 
brown connecting medium, and called benzoe amygdaloides, the 
other of brown or blackish lumps, without tears, known as 
benzoe in sortis {benzoin in sorts). Benzoin is volatile, has a 
fragrant odor, a feeble, slightly aromatic taste, is soluble in 
alcohol and ether, and is precipitated from its alcoholic solution 
by water. Its chief constituents are resin and benzoic acid, 
which places it among the balsams ; it contains also a trace of 
extractive and of volatile oil ; and sometimes cinnamic acid. 

Effects and Uses. — Benzoin is a topical irritant, and, after 
absorption, stimulates the mucous passages, especially the 
aerian membranes. It resembles myrrh in its effects, but is 
more acrid and stimulating, and less tonic. It is adapted to 
chronic bronchial affections, but is seldom employed alone. As 
a fumigation in chronic laryngitis, it has been recommended 
by Trousseau and Pidoux. Dose, gr. x to 5ss. The com- 
pound tincture (containing benzoin 3 troyounces, aloes half a 
troyounce, storax 2 troyounces, balsam of Tolu a troy ounce, 
dissolved in alcohol 2 pints), is used as a stimulating expec- 
torant and in bowel complaints — dose, foss to foij. Ointment 
of benzoin is made by heating together one part of benzoin and 
sixteen parts of lard. As benzoin has the property of ob- 
viating the rancidity to which lard is liable, this is a very use- 
ful vehicle for medicated ointments. 

Acidum Benzoicum {Benzoic Acid), is obtained from ben- 
zoin by sublimation, or by the action of alkalies. It occurs in 
white, soft, feathery crystals, of a silky lustre, and not pulver- 
ulent. It has more or less of the odor of the balsam, a warm, 
acrid, and acidulous taste, is inflammable, sparingly soluble in 
cold water, rather soluble in boiling water, but perfectly soluble 
in alcohol, alkaline solutions, and fixed oils. It is a constituent 
of the' balsams. 

Effects and Uses. — Benzoic acid is a local irritant, acting on 
the general system as a stimulant, with a particular direction 
to the mucous surfaces, especially the aerian. Dose, gr. x. 



270 MATERIA MEDICA. 

In its passage through the system, it abstracts nitrogen from 
the elements of urea, and passes out with the urine in the form 
of hippuric acid. It is little employed in medicine, except as 
an ingredient in Paregoric Elixir. 

BALSAMUM PERUVIANUM — BALSAM OF PERU. 

Balsam of Peru is the juice of Myrospermum Peruiferum 
(Nat. Ord. Leguminosae), a tree of Central America. It is 
obtained from incisions in the bark, and is collected on rags 
inserted in the openings, which are afterwards boiled in water, 
when the balsam settles at the bottom, and the water is poured 
off. A white balsam, obtained from the fruit of this tree by 
expression, and a tincture of the fruit in rum, are also known 
in Central America. Balsam of Peru has the consistence of 
honey, a dark, reddish-brown color, a pleasant smell, a warm, 
acrid taste, and is soluble in alcohol, and partially so in boiling 
water. It is heavier than water. Its constituents are resin, 
essential oil, and cinnamic acid. 

Effects and Uses. — It is a stimulating blennorrhetic and tonic, 
occasionally employed in chronic catarrhs, asthma, gonorrhoea, 
leucorrhoea, &c, but not much used in this country. Externally, 
it is applied to indolent ulcers. Dose, f 5ss, in emulsion. 

BALSAMUM TOLUTANUM — BALSAM OF TOLU. 

Balsam of Tolu is the juice of Myrospermum Toluiferum 
(Nat. Ord. Leguminosae), a tree of the neighborhood of Cartha- 
gena. It is procured from incisions in . the trunk of the tree, 
and concretes in the vessels in which it is received. It has a 
soft, tenacious consistence, varying with the temperature, and by 
age becomes hard and resin-like. It is shining, translucent, of 
a reddish-brown color, a fragrant odor, and a warm, sweetish, 
pungent taste. It is inflammable, entirely soluble in alcohol 
and essential oils, and, like the other balsams, yields its acid 
to boiling water. Its ingredients are resin, volatile oil, and 
cinnamic acid. 



EMMENAGOGUES. 271 

Effects and Uses. — It is a stimulant blennorrhetic and tonic 
useful in chronic catarrhal affections, and from its agreeable 
flavor, much employed as an ingredient of cough mixtures. 
The vapor of an ethereal solution of this balsam is inhaled with 
advantage for the relief of cough. Dose, gr. x-xxx, in emul- 
sion, frequently repeated. The tincture (three troyounces to 
alcohol Oij) is added to cough mixtures ; dose, f5i-ij- The 
syrup (made by rubbing 2 fluidounces of tincture of Tolu with 
120 grains of carbonate of magnesia, 2 troyounces of sugar, 
and a pint of water, filtering, and in the filtered liquid dissolv- 
ing 24 troyounces of sugar at a gentle heat), is used as a vehicle 
for other medicines. Balsam of Tolu is an ingredient of the 
compound tincture of benzoin. 

The following gum-resins, previously noticed among anti- 
spasmodics, are employed as expectorants : 
Assafcetida (Assafetida). (See p. 88). 
Ammoniacum (Ammoniac). See. p. 91). 
Galbanum. (See p. 90). 

ORDER VI. — EMMENAGOGUES. 

Emmenagogues (from k/^via, the catamenia, and ayuyog, ex- 
citing) are medicines which promote the menstrual discharge. 
This discharge may be suppressed from various causes, and 
hence very opposite classes of remedies are employed to restore 
it. Thus, when amenorrhcea depends on ana>mia, the prepa- 
rations of iron are the most effectual emmenagogues; on 
the other hand, when it occurs in connection with^Zef hora, blood- 
letting and evacuants are resorted to. There are probably 
no articles which exert any specific influence upon the cata- 
menia, as the discharge from the uterus is not one of the ex- 
cretions through which medicinal agents pass out of the sys- 
tem. » Medicines, however, which excite the pelvic circulation, 
and stimulate the organs in the neighborhood of the uterus, 
have a tendency to increase or excite the menstrual discharge. 
They are — 



272 MATERIA MEDICA. 

1. The drastic cathartics, as Aloes (p. 224), Black Helle- 
bore (p. 233), &c. 

2. Many of the stimulating diuretics, particularly Cantha- 
ris (p. 254). 

3. Some of the blennorrheas, particularly Sexeka (p. 
256). 

4. uaiacum (p. 242), usually classed with the diapho- 
retics. 

Indirectly, the menstrual discharge is frequently promoted 
by- 

1. Chalybeates, which are the best emmenagogues in chlo- 
rotic and anaemic cases. 

2. Mercurials, which prove emmenagogue from their influ- 
ence in exciting the secretions generally. 

The following articles are employed exclusively as emmena- 
gogues : 



S A BIN A — SAVIN E. 

Savine is the TOPS of Juniperus Sabina {Nat. Orel. Pinacese), 
a small, evergreen, bushy shrub of the south of Europe. They 
resemble closely the tops of Juniperus Virginiana, the indige- 
nous Red Cedar, which are sometimes substituted for savine in 
the shops. The latter has a greenish color, a strong, peculiar, 
heavy odor, and a bitter, nauseous, resinous taste. Its virtues 
depend on a volatile oil, which is officinal. 

Physiological Effects. — Savine is a local irritant. Taken 
internally, in medicinal doses, it stimulates the circulation and 
secretions, with a very decided action on the uterus. In large 
doses, it will cause vomiting, purging, and other symptoms of 
gastro-intestinal inflammation ; and fatal results have some- 
times occurred from its use to provoke premature labor. 

Medicinal Uses. — Savine is employed internally, almost ex- 
clusively as an emmenagogue, and is considered one of the best 
medicines that can be used to stimulate the action of the ute- 
rine vessels. Pereira pronounces it " the most certain and 



H^IMATINICS. 273 

powerful emmenagogue of the whole Materia Medica." It lias 
also been recommended in chronic rheumatism, and as an an- 
thelmintic. Topically, it is used to keep up the discharge from 
blisters, to destroy warts, &c. Dose, in powder, gr. v-x ; but 
it loses much of its oil by drying. Qeratum Sabince (three 
parts of savine dissolved in ether, to twelve parts of resin 
cerate) is used to make perpetual blisters. 

Oleum Sabine [Oil of Savine) is the preparation princi- 
pally used internally. Dose, gtt. v-x. 

Rut a [Rue). The leaves of Kuta graveolens [Nat. Ord. 
Rutacese), a perennial European plant," are ranked among em- 
menagogues, and are used, popularly, to provoke abortion. 
Dose, gr. xv-xxx,.two or three times a day. Of the volatile 
oil, the dose is gtt. ij-v. 

Rubia [Madder). The boot of Rubia tinctorum, or Dyer's 
Madder [Nat. Ord. Rubiacese), a European plant, is occasion- 
ally employed as an emmenagogue. Dose 5ss, three or four 
times a day. 



CLASS III— HEMATICS. 

OBDEB I. HJEMATINICS. 

This order (from a^a-iva, the red coloring matter of the 
blood), includes only the Preparations of Iron, or Chaly- 
beates. The chalybeates increase the number of blood-cor- 
puscles, or the amount of hsematin in the blood, and are 
employed therapeutically in diseases dependent on a deficiency 
of these elements. They belong eminently to hcematies (or 
medicines which occasion changes in the condition of the 
blood); but, as they possess also general and local tonic 
effects, independent of their action on the blood, they have 
been classed and treated of among the mineral tonics (see p. 
123). 

18 



274 MATERIA MEDICA. 



ORDER II. — ALTERATIVES. 

Alteratives may be defined to be medicines, which produce 
such a modification of the tissues, as enables the vital principle 
to restore healthy action, in morbid conditions of the system. 
Their effects are chiefly owing to a correcting influence on the 
quality of the circulating fluid. Thus, in inflammations, they 
diminish the abnormal quantity of fibrin in the blood, render 
its red corpuscles less disposed to aggregation, and decrease the 
number and adhesiveness of its white globules. In part, also, 
their curative operation is of a substitutive character, by setting 
up an antagonistic action, which takes the place of diseased 
action in the system. 

Under the influence of alteratives, the secretions and exha- 
lations are increased, the textures softened, inflammatory 
action is arrested, and morbid growths and deposits are 
absorbed. The exudation of plastic or coagulaffle lymph is 
checked, and, as a consequence, also the formation of false 
membranes. Visceral and glandular enlargements and indura- 
tions are diminished and often disappear, and phlegmonous 
inflammation, of every kind, is opposed. 

If pushed too far, the alteratives soften and even destroy 
the textures, impoverish the blood so as to interfere with the 
functions of nutrition, and produce a condition of marasmus 
and cachexia. 

Their principal therapeutic employment is as antiphlogistics 
or resolvents. The mercurials are chiefly employed in acute 
inflammations, — the preparations of iodine, bromine, &c, in 
-chronic inflammations. In the treatment of acute inflamma- 
tory affect-ions, mercurials are among the most important of 
our resources — especially in such as have a tendency to termi- 
nate in effusions of coagulable lymph. The iodic and bromic 
preparations are adapted to inflammations of a chronic 
character — and are particularly serviceable in indurations or 
enlargements of glands and organs, and in affections of the 
bones and fibrous tissues. 



PREPARATIONS OF MERCURY. 275 

By their substitutive or antagonistic action, alteratives are 
highly efficacious in the treatment of many diseases. In this 
way, syphilis is cured by the use of mercury, and intermittent 
fever by the use of arsenious acid. 

Owing to the injurious results which follow the prolonged 
exhibition of alteratives, they are to be administered with 
caution, and their effects closely watched. 



HYDRARGYRI PR^EPARATA — PREPARATIONS OF 
M E R C U R Y. 

Metallic mercury or quicksilver is obtained chiefly from the 
sulphuret (native cinnabar). The chief supply of quicksilver 
was long derived from Spain and Austria, but the markets of 
the United States are now furnished from New Almaden, in 
California. Mercury is an odorless, tasteless, volatile, liquid 
metal, of a whitish color. Its equivalent number is considered 
by some chemists to be 200, by others, 100 ; the nomenclature 
of its compounds varying with the equivalent number adopted. 

While it retains the liquid metallic state, mercury is inert ; 
but, when taken internally, it sometimes combines with oxygen 
in the alimentary canal, and thus becomes active. In the state 
of vapor, it frequently proves injurious — in some instances ex- 
citing salivation, ulceration of the mouth, &c. ; in others indu- 
cing a peculiar affection of the nervous system, termed shaking 
palsy {tremor mercurialis), which is often attended with loss of 
memory, vertigo, and other evidences of cerebral disturbance, 
and sometimes terminates fatally. Workmen in quicksilver are 
liable to this affection. It is supposed by some chemists, that 
the activity of mercurial emanations is owing to the oxidation 
of the metal, before it is inhaled ; by others, that, in the finely- 
divided state, in which it exists as a vapor, it is in itself 
poisonous. 

All the compounds of mercury possess activity. Some of 
them are violent caustic poisons ; all of them are more or less 
irritant. When the mercurials are taken internally, their 



276 MATERIA MEDICA. 

effects vary with the quantity administered. In small and re- 
peated closes, their influence is first shown in an increase of 
the activity of the secern ents and exhalants. The cutaneous, 
mucous, biliary, salivary, urinary, and, probably also, the pan- 
creatic secretions, are all increased in amount, and, at the same 
time, the absorbent system becomes more active, so that accu- 
mulations of fluids, morbid enlargements, indurations, &c, will 
often disappear. 

"When mercury is given in larger doses, these effects are more 
intense. The mucous membrane of the mouth and the salivary 
glands not only take on increased secretory action, but become 
irritated and inflamed. The gums first show the mercurial 
influence, and are tender and tumefied ; the whole mouth soon 
becomes sore ; the tongue is swollen ; and the saliva and buccal 
mucus flow abundantly, sometimes to the extent of several 
pints a day. At the same time, the breath acquires a peculiar 
fetidity, and the patient perceives a metallic taste in the mouth. 
The resolvent action of mercury is now still more obvious than 
when its impression is milder, and considerable emaciation 
usually ensues, from the absorption of fat. These effects, 
which are termed sialagogue (from the excessive flow of saliva), 
are commonly produced for the cure of diseases, and, as a gen- 
eral rule, gradually subside, leaving the health unimpaired. 
When, however, the use of mercury is pushed too far, or it is 
administered to persons peculiarly susceptible of its action, a 
train of very serious symptoms ensues — as excessive salivation, 
ulceration of the mouth, sloughing of the gums, loosening of 
the teeth, and, occasionally, necrosis of the alveolar processes. 
A peculiar febrile condition, called, mercurial fever, diarrhoea, 
skin diseases, neuralgia, rheumatism, disorder of the nervous 
system, and marasmus, are other symptoms which are frequently 
noticed after the abuse of mercury. 

After its absorption, mercury produces several important 
changes in the quality of the blood. Immediately upon the 
establishment of salivation, the blood exhibits an inflammatory 
crust ; but, at a later period, it loses color, consistence, and 
coagulability, and the proportion of fibrin to serum becomes 



PREPARATIONS OF MERCURY. J 7 7 

diminished. This antiplastic action on the blood renders mer- 
curials valuable as antiphlogistic remedies. ■ 

Medicinal Uses. — Liquid metallic mercury was formerly ad- 
ministered to remove mechanical obstructions of the bowels, but 
its use has been abandoned. The preparations of mercury sure 
employed therapeutically with various objects. 

1. As indirect tonics and cholagogues, — with a view to their 
action on the secretions, — in dyspepsia and constipation, accom- 
panied with torpor of the liver, in gout, rheumatism, chronic 
skin diseases, &c. Blue pill, mercury with chalk, and calomel, 
are employed with this view ; the two former are preferred as 
least irritating. 

2. As sialagogues. The chief value of mercurials is shown 
when a full impression is made on the system, as evidenced by 
salivation. This condition is usually established by the internal 
exhibition of mercurials, but it may also be produced by fric- 
tion or hj fumigation. In putting the system under the influ- 
ence of mercury, it is not necessary to excite a high degree of 
ptyalism, though in chronic diseases, it is often proper to keep 
up the effect for some time. During the maintenance of ptyal- 
ism, the patient should use warm clothing, avoid exposure to 
cold, and take light and nourishing food. If excessive dis- 
charge or ulceration occur, astringent gargles, as brandy and 
water, solutions of chloride of soda or lime, alum, &a, may be 
employed. In cases of sloughing sores, nitrate of silver or the 
mineral acids should be applied. Gastro-enteric irritation is to 
be treated with laxatives and opiates. The mercurial cachexia 
requires change of air, generous diet, tonics, &c. T\ hen the 
system is contaminated with mercury, it may be eliminated by 
the use of iodide of potassium, which forms soluble compounds 
with the mercury retained in the economy. 

As sialagogues, mercurials are chiefly employed in fevers, 
inflammations, dysentery, cholera, and syphilis. In / 
mercurials are used with a view both to their action on the 
secretions, and to a gentle sialagogue influence. It is m inflam- 
mations that the value of mercurials is most conspicuous, 
depletion, the mercurial preparations, from their antiplastic 



278 MATERIA MEDICA. 

action on the blood, are probably the most efficacious means at 
our command for the relief of internal inflammations. They 
are most useful in inflammations of serous tissues, especially 
where these are connected with the exudation of coagulable 
lymph, and also where there is a tendency to the formation 
of false membrane, as in plastic croup. In scrofulous, malig- 
nant, or gangrenous inflammations, mercury is objectionable. In 
dysentery and cholera, mercurials are highly valuable remedies, 
and enter into nearly all the varieties of treatment adopted in 
these diseases. In syphilitic diseases, mercury has long been 
regarded as the only reliable curative agent. It has no direct 
curative influence on the primary symptoms ; but, after the 
system has been contaminated with the syphilitic virus, mer- 
cury is the most certain and rapid means of eradicating it. In 
hepatic and inflammatory dropsies, mercurials are employed 
with advantage, with a view to their action both on the secre- 
tions and absorbents. Where much debility exists, however, 
and in granular diseases of the kidneys, mercurials are objec- 
tionable. The preparations of mercury have been exhibited as 
sialagogues in many other diseases, as paralysis, colica pic- 
tonum, chronic visceral diseases, particularly of the lungs and 
liver, &c. They must be always considered as contra-indicated 
in scrofulous or tuberculous subjects, in cases of malignant 
disease, in extensive suppurations, marasmus, Bright's disease 
of the kidneys, &c. 

Blue pill and calomel are the sialagogues principally resorted 
to ; but other preparations, as the iodides, are employed in 
syphilis. In administering mercurials, for their sialagogue 
action, we sometimes observe a cumulative effect : they may be 
exhibited, particularly to children, for some time without re- 
sult, when suddenly the most violent symptoms of mercurial 
saturation will be developed. 

3. As purgatives. The employment of calomel, blue pill, 
and mercury with chalk, as cathartics and anthelmintics, has 
been previously noticed (see p. 237). 

The following are the preparations of mercury which are 
employed medicinally: 



PREPARATIONS OF MERCURY. 279 

1. Metallic Mercury. When intimately mixed with pul- 
verulent or fatty bodies, mercury loses its liquid character — is 
said to be killed, extinguished, or mortified — and acquires 
medicinal activity. Its activity is probably owing to its reduc- 
tion to a state of minute division, which enables it to enter into 
combinations in the stomach. The officinal preparations of 
metallic mercury are : Pilules Hydrargyri [Pills of Mercury), 
Unguentum Hydrargyri [Mercurial Ointment), Emplastrum 
Hydrargyri (Mercurial Plaster), Hydrargyrum cum Cretd 
(Mercury ivith Chalk). 

2. Oxides. — Hydrargyri Oxidum Nigrum (Black Oxide 
of Mercury), Hydrargyri Oxidum Rubrum (Red Oxide of 
Mercury). 

3. Chlorides. — Hydrargyri Chloridum Mite (Mild Chlo- 
ride of Mercury, or Calomel), Hydrargyri Chloridum Corrosi- 
vum (Corrosive Chloride of Mercury, or Corrosive Subli- 
mate). 

4. Iodides. — Hydrargyri Iodidum Viride (G-reen Iodide 
of Mercury), Hydrargyri Iodidum Rubrum (Red Iodide of 
Mercury). 

5. Hydrargyri Cyanidum (Cyanide of Mercury). 

6. Hydrargyrum Ammoniatum (Ammoniated Mercury). 

7. Hydrargyri Sulphas Flava (Yelloiv Sulphate of Mer- 
cury). 

8. Hydrargyri Sulphur etum Rubrum (Red Sulphuret of 
Mercury). 

9. Nitrates. — Unguentum Hydrargyri Nitratis (Ointment 
of Nitrate of Mercury), Liquor Hydrargyri Nitratis (Solution 
of Nitrate of Mercury). 

Pilule Hydrargyri (Pills of Mercury). This preparation, s. 
generally known as Blue Pill, is made by rubbing mercury (a I 
troyounce) with confection of rose (a troyounce and a half), till 
all the globules disappear ; then adding powdered liquorice root 
(half a troyounce), and beating the whole into a mass. The 
trituration is now generally effected by machinery — usually by 
steam power. It is a soft, dark blue mass, of a convenient 
consistence for making into pills. The mercury is in a state 



280 MATERIA MEDICA. 

of minute division, and is chemically unaltered, though, per- 
haps, a very small portion of it is in a state of oxidation. 
Three grains of the pilular mass contain one grain of mercury. 
The preparation changes color from being kept, becoming of 
an olive and even reddish tint, in consequence of the further 
oxidation of the metal. As it is often adulterated, it is im- 
portant that it should be purchased of a reliable house. 

Effects and Uses. — In full doses (gr. v-xv), blue pill acts as 
a laxative ; when given for this purpose, it is usually followed 
in a few hours by a saline cathartic. In doses of gr. i-ij-iij, 
repeated at proper intervals, it is employed as an alterative or 
sialagogue, and is the favorite preparation for exciting saliva- 
tion in chronic affections. When it moves the bowels, opium 
is combined with it. It may be pleasantly given suspended in 
mucilage or syrup. 

TTnguentum Hydrargyri (Mercurial Ointment) is made by 
rubbing two parts of mercury with one part of suet and lard 
each, until the globules disappear. It is an unctuous, fatty 
body, of a bluish-gray color, consisting of equal weights of 
fatty matter and finely divided mercury. A very small portion 
of protoxide is, perhaps, present, and, as the ointment becomes 
darker by age, a further oxidation of the mercury probably 
takes place. 

Effects and Uses. — Mercurial ointment, when either swal- 
lowed or rubbed into the integuments, produces the constitu- 
tional effects of mercury ; locally, it has but little irritant 
effect. It is scarcely ever used internally in the United States 
or Great Britain, though, in France, it is highly esteemed as a 
sialagogue, in the dose of gr. ij, repeated. Externally, it is 
used to mercurialize the system by friction, or applied to 
blistered surfaces ; to disperse non-malignant tumors ; as a 
dressing to syphilitic sores ; to destroy pediculi ; and to prevent 
suppuration and pitting in small-pox. 

Emplastrum Hydrargyri (Mercurial Plaster), is made by 
rubbing 6 troyounces of mercury with 2 troyounces of olive oil 
and resin each previously melted together, till the globules dis- 
appear ; and then adding 12 troyounces of melted lead plaster. 



PREPARATIONS OF MERCURY. 281 

It is used as a discutient of venereal and other enlargements. 
&c, and is applied to the side in chronic hepatitis ; it may in- 
duce salivation. The plaster of ammoniac with mercury (made 
with ammoniac, mercury, olive oil, and sulphur) is more stimu- 
lating than the foregoing. 

Hydrargyrum cum Creta {Mercury with Chalk), is pre- 
pared by rubbing three parts of mercury with five parts of 
-prepared chalk, till all the globules disappear. It is a grayish 
powder, containing mercury chiefly in a state of minute division. 
In full doses, it is a gentle laxative, milder even than blue pill ; 
in smaller doses, it is an excellent alterative ; and the chalk 
renders it antacid. It is chiefly employed as an alterative in 
infantile cases. Dose, for adults, gr. v-xx ; for children, gr. 
ij or iij to gr. viij or x, in powder, and not in pills, as in the 
latter form the mercury becomes squeezed out of the chalk. 

Hydrargyri Oxidum Nigrum [Black Oxide of Mercury). 
This preparation, although discarded from the Pharmacopoeia, 
has still claims to notice. It is obtained by agitating calomel 
(protochloride of mercury) in a solution of potassa ; chloride 
of potassium is formed in solution, and protoxide of mercury 
(one equivalent of oxygen and one equivalent of mercury) (Hg 
0), precipitates. As first prepared, it is a greenish-black 
powder ; but, on exposure to light or heat, it is converted into 
a mixture of metallic mercury and deutoxide, and becomes 
olive-colored. It is odorless, tasteless, insoluble in water, but 
soluble in nitric and acetic acids. Its effects are alterative, 
sialagogue, and purgative, and it is one of the least irritating 
of the mercurial preparations — but it is little used internally, 
on account of the uncertainty of its composition. Dose, gr. J 
to gr. i— ij, in pill. Externally, it has been employed as a 
fumigating agent; also, as an application to chancres and 
other' sores, suspended in a weak solution of chloride of 
calcium, under the name of black wash (made extemporane- 
ously by adding calomel 5j, to lime-water Oj). 

Hydrargyri Oxidum Rubrum (Red Oxide of Mercury). 
This is the deutoxide or peroxide of mercury (consisting of 



282 ■ MATERIA MEDICA. 

one equivalent of metal and two equivalents of oxygen), (Hg 
2 ). It is usually made by dissolving mercury in diluted 
nitric acid, with a gentle heat, by which nitrate of the deutox- 
ide of mercury is formed ; and the nitric acid is afterwards 
decomposed and driven off by calcination. The deutoxide of 
mercury, which is commonly called red precipitate, occurs in 
small, shining scales, of a brilliant red color, with a shade of 
orange. It has an acrid taste, and Is nearly insoluble in water. 
Its effects are those of a powerful irritant, and, when taken 
internally, even in small doses, it excites vomiting and purging 
— in large doses, gastro-enteritis. It is rarely or never used 
internally (dose, gr. y'g-J) > externally, it is applied as an 
escharotic, either in powder or ointment, to chancres, indolent 
ulcers, &c. The yellow wash (a favorite application to phaga- 
denic venereal ulcers) consists of red oxide of mercury, 
suspended in a weak solution of chloride of calcium and 
caustic lime ; it is made by adding corrosive sublimate (gr. ij, 
or less) to lime water (f§j). Unguentum hydrargyri oxidi 
rubri {ointment of red oxide of mercury), consists of one part 
of red oxide mixed with eight parts of ointment of lard : it is 
a very useful stimulating ointment in indolent ulcers, porrigo, 
ophthalmia, &c. 

Hydrargyri Chloridum Mite {Mild Chloride of Mer- 
cury). This preparation, well known as calomel, consists of 
one equivalent of chlorine and of mercury, each, and is a 
protochloride of mercury (HgCl). It is made by subliming 
a mixture of protosulphate of mercury and chloride of 
sodium (common salt) ; a double decomposition takes place, by 
which chloride of mercury and sulphate of soda are formed. 
The protosulphate of mercury is previously obtained by boiling 
mercury in sulphuric acid, and afterwards triturating the 
resulting bisulphate of the deutoxide with mercury. Calomel, 
as thus procured in mass, is liable to contain a little corrosive 
sublimate. It should be reduced to powder, and washed 
repeatedly with boiling distilled water, until the absence of a 
white precipitate with ammonia shows that the corrosive subli- 



PREPARATIONS OF MERCURY. 283 

mate has been removed. With a view of obtaining calomel in 
a state of very minute division, its vapor is condensed in a 
receiving vessel filled with steam, whereby it takes the form of 
a very fine powder, and is perfectly free from corrosive subli- 
mate. The calomel thus prepared (known as Jewell's or 
Howard's calomel) is finer and more active than can be 
obtained by levigation and elutriation. 

Calomel, as usually manufactured by sublimation, is in the 
form of white, fibrous, crystalline cakes. It may be ob- 
tained in the shape of quadrangular, prismatic crystals. As 
found in the shops, it is a light-buff or ivory-colored powder, 
tasteless, inodorous, insoluble in water, alcohol, and ether, un- 
alterable in the air, but blackening by long exposure to light. 
It should be kept in bottles painted black or covered with black 
paper. JewelVs calomel is a perfectly white powder. When 
pure, calomel is completely vaporizable by heat ; it strikes a 
black color, free from reddish tinge, with solutions of the 
fixed alkalies ; and should not, when digested with water, form 
a white precipitate with ammonia, unless it contain corrosive 
sublimate. 

Incompatibles. — The alkalies, alkaline earths, alkaline car- 
bonates, soaps, and hydrosulphates, are incompatible with calo- 
mel. Nitro-muriatic acid should not be prescribed with it, for 
fear of generating corrosive sublimate. Preparations contain- 
ing hydrocyanic acid, the chlorides of sodium and potassium, 
and muriate of ammonia, produce the same change. It is 
asserted that calomel is converted into corrosive sublimate in 
the stomach by the muriatic acid which it encounters, but there 
are many reasons for rejecting this hypothesis. 

Effects and Uses. — Calomel produces the effects of the mer- 
curials already described, and, in purgative doses, proves also 
a valuable anthelmintic. From the certainty and mildness of 
its operation, it is more employed than any of the other prepara- 
tions of mercury, although blue pill, which if less certain, is milder, 
is preferred under some circumstances. Calomel has been fre- 
quently taken in very large doses, without any bad effects ; but 
cases are recorded in which, in excessive quantity, it has acted 



284 MATEKIA MEDICA. 

as an irritant poison. As a purgative, it is employed in doses 
of gr. vi-xij, in fevers, hepatitis, colica pictonuin, dysentery, 
and many other affections ;. as an anthelmintic, in the same 
doses ; and, in both cases, it is to be followed in a few hours 
by a saline draught, castor oil, or senna. Calomel is often 
given in combination with other cathartics, as jalap, rhubarb, 
aloes, scammony, colocynth, and gamboge. In very large 
doses, as 3j to 5ss, or even, more, it is said to possess sedative 
powers, and has been recommended in dysentery, cholera, puer- 
peral fever, &c. As an antiphlogistic, in inflammatory cases, 
calomel is given in doses of gr. J to gr. j, every one, two, or 
three hours ; as an alterative, in these doses, twice or thrice a 
day. In the dose of gr. j, frequently repeated, it is one of the 
best means of checking obstinate vomiting. It is frequently 
added to other medicines to increase their action on the secre- 
tions, as diuretics, antimonials, &c. To children, calomel may 
be given in proportionally larger doses than to adults, and it 
rarely salivates them. In infantile diarrhoea, very minute 
doses of calomel, as gr. J, y 1 ^, i 1 ^, every hour or two, are highly 
efficacious. Externally, calomel is applied in powder, as an 
errhine, in amaurosis ; and, made into an ointment (a drachm 
to a troyounce of lard), it is an excellent application in a va- 
riety of cutaneous affections. 

Hydrargyri Chloridum Corrosivum [Corrosive Chloride 
of Mercury). This is the bichloride of mercury, commonly 
called corrosive sublimate, consisting of two equivalents of 
chlorine and one equivalent of mercury (HgCl 2 ). It is made 
by subliming a mixture of chloride of sodium and bisulphate 
of the deutoxide of mercury (which is previously obtained by 
boiling mercury with sulphuric acid) ; and double decomposi- 
tion takes place, resulting in the formation of bichloride of 
mercury and sulphate of soda. Corrosive sublimate occurs in 
the form of white, semi-transparent, crystalline masses, per- 
manent in the air, inodorous, and of an acrid, styptic taste. 
It is tolerably soluble in cold water, and very soluble in boiling 
water, alcohol, ether, and the mineral acids. The aqueous 
solution, when exposed to light, is decomposed, with the precipi- 



PREPARATIONS OF MERCURY. 285 

tation of calomel and evolution of hydrochloric acid. It is in- 
compatible with many of the metals, the alkalies and their 
carbonates, soap, lime-water, tartar emetic, nitrate of silver, 
the acetates of lead, the sulphurets and iodides of potassium and 
sodium, and all the hydrosulphates. The tests for detecting 
corrosive sublimate as a poison are, in the order of their deli- 
cacy, ferrocyanide of potassium, lime-water, carbonate of po- 
tassa, iodide of potassium, ammonia, sulphuretted hydrogen, 
and protochloricle of tin. 

Physiological Effects. — In medicinal doses as gr. yg-J, cor- 
rosive sublimate occasions a beneficial alterative effect, without 
any obvious activity. Its continued use may cause salivation, 
but it has less tendency to produce this result than any other 
preparation of mercury. Medicinal doses, if too large or too 
long-continued, frequently produce gastro-enteric symptoms 
and the constitutional effects of mercury. In excessive doses, 
corrosive sublimate is a violent caustic poison, from its affinity 
for albumen, fibrin, and other constituents of the tissues. It pro- 
duces the most intense gastro-enteritis, sometimes followed by the 
ordinary constitutional effects of mercury. The best antidote is al- 
bumen (in the form of white of eggs) ; or, if this is not attainable, 
gluten (in wheat flour), or casein (in milk), may be substituted. 
The protosulpliuret of iron (if given immediately), and a mix- 
ture of iron filings (two parts) with gold dust (one part), also 
decomposes corrosive sublimate. In cases of poisoning, the 
stomach must be evacuated as soon as possible, and the after 
treatment consists in the free use of demulcents, opiates, and 
topical depletion. 

Medicinal Uses. — Corrosive sublimate is chiefly used as an 
alterative in secondary syphilis; also in cutaneous and rheu- 
matic affections, and as a sorbefacient in old dropsies. Dose, 
g r . Jg-i three or four times a day, in pill or solution. Exter- 
nally, it may be used as a caustic ; a weak solution (gr. J-i-ij 
to water f gj) is much employed as a wash to ulcers, an injection 
in gleet, a colly riurn, &c. An ointment (gr. J-i-ij to lard gj), 
is a good application in porrigo. 



286 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Htdrargyri Iodidum Yiride [Green Iodide of Mercury), 
is made by rubbing mercury and iodine together, with the addi- 
tion of a little alcohol. It is a protiodide, consisting of one 
equivalent of iodine and mercury each (Hgl), and is a yellowish- 
green powder, insoluble in water and alcohol, but soluble in 
ether. By exposure to light it is partially decomposed, and 
becomes of a dark-olive color. 

Effects and Uses. — This mercurial exercises a specific influ- 
ence over the lymphatic and glandular systems, and is employed 
in syphilis and scrofula occurring in the same individual. Dose, 
gr. j, gradually increased to gr. iij or iv; it should not be given 
with iodide of potassium, which decomposes it. Externally, it 
is applied, in the form of ointment, to syphilitic ulcers, &c. 

Htdrargyri Iodium Rubrum [Red Iodide of Mercury), is 
the biniodide, consisting of one equivalent of mercury and two 
equivalents of iodine (Hgl 2 ). It is made by mixing solutions 
of iodide of potassium and bichloride of mercury, from which 
a double decomposition ensues, resulting in the formation of 
chloride of potassium in solution, and biniodide of mercury is 
precipitated. It is a scarlet-red powder, insoluble in water, but 
soluble in alcohol and solutions of iodide of potassium, chloride 
of sodium, &c. It is a powerful irritant and caustic, and is 
employed in the same cases as the protiodide, though much 
more energetic. Dose, gr. Jg, gradually increased to gr. \, in 
pill or alcoholic solution. Externally, it is much used in the 
form of ointment. 

Htdrargyri Cyanidum [Cyanide of Mercury). This salt is 
made by adding a solution of ferrocyanide of potassium to sul- 
phuric acid, by which hydrocyanic acid is produced, and this, 
being received in a vessel containing water and red oxide of 

O © 

mercury, generates water and bicyanide of mercury (HgCy 2 ). 
It is usually found in the form of permanent, prismatic, white, 
and opaque crystals, of a disagreeable styptic taste, soluble in 
water, but not in alcohol. It is an active poison, and is used 
as an antisyphilitic remedy, as a substitute for corrosive subli- 
mate, over which it has the advantage of not producing epigas- 



PREPARATIONS OF MERCURY. 287 



trie pain, and not being decomposed by alkalies and 
substances. Dose, gr. J to 



organic 



tV 






Hydrargyrum Ammoniatum (Ammoniated Mercury). This 
preparation, commonly called white precipitate, is made by 
precipitating a solution of bichloride of mercury by ammonia ; 
muriate of ammonia is formed in solution, and ammoniated 
mercury is thrown down.- It consists of one equivalent of 
bichloride of mercury and one equivalent of a compound con- 
sisting of one equivalent of mercury combined with two equiva- 
lents of amidogen (or ammonia deprived of one equivalent of 
hydrogen). In symbols the reaction may be thus expressed : 
4NH s +2HgCl 2 =Hg,2NH 2 + HgCl 2 +2(NH s ,HCl). It'is a per- 
fectly white powder, insoluble in water and alcohol, decom- 
posed by boiling water, inodorous, and has an earthy, after- 
wards metallic taste. It is largely adulterated, chiefly with 
sulphate of lime. Its effects are poisonous, -but it is used only 
as an external application, in the form of ointment (iinguentum 
hydrargyri ammoniati, one part of ammoniated mercury to 
twelve parts of ointment of lard), to cutaneous eruptions, and 
to destroy pediculi. 

Hydrargyri Sulphas Flava [Yellow Sulphate of Mer- 
cury). This salt, commonly called turpeth mineral, is made by 
throwing the bisulphate of the deutoxide of mercury (as ob- 
tained from the action of sulphuric acid on mercury), into boil- 
ing water ; the bisulphate is instantly decomposed, and a basic 
sesquisulphate of the deutoxide of mercury — turpeth mineral — 
(3Hg0 2 ,2S0 3 ), is precipitated. It is an inodorous, lemon- 
yellow powder, of a rather acrid taste, and almost insoluble 
in water. It has been employed as an alterative, in doses of 
gr, J-J ; as an emetic, in croup and chronic enlargement of the 
testis, in closes of gr. ij-v ; and as an errhine, in chronic oph- 
thalmia and diseases of the head. In an overdose, it is poison- 
ous, 5j having proved fatal. 

Hydrargyri Sulphuretum Rubrum {Red Sulphuret of 



288 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Mercury), or Cinnabar (which is found as a native combina- 
tion), is manufactured by subliming a mixture of one part of 
sulphur and five parts of mercury. It consists of one equiva- 
lent of mercury and two equivalents of sulphur (HgS 2 ), and 
occurs in the form of heavy, brilliant, deep-red, crystalline 
masses, which are inodorous, tasteless, entirely volatilizable 
by heat, and insoluble in water and alcohol. It is not em- 
ployed internally, but is used in the way of fumigation in vene- 
real ulcers of the throat and nose ; 5ss may be thrown on a 
red-hot iron and inhaled ; but the black oxide is a better sub- 
stance for mercurial fumigation. Cinnabar is used as, a paint, 
under the name of vermilion. 

Unguentum Hydrargyri Nitratis {Ointment of Nitrate of 
Mercury). The nitrate of mercury is employed chiefly in the 
form of ointment. This preparation, known as citrine oint- 
ment, is made by dissolving a troy ounce and a half of mercury 
in 3 \ troyounces of nitric acid, and adding the solution to a 
melted mixture of 12 troyounces of neat's-foot oil and 4J troy- 
ounces of lard, stirring until effervescence ceases. The chemi- 
cal changes which result here are. not prescisely known ; but a 
subnitrate of the deutoxide of mercury is probably formed, 
with fatty acids and elaidin. Citrine ointment has a fine yellow 
color and unctuous consistence ; but, if not very carefully 
made, it becomes greenish, hard, and friable. It is an excellent 
stimulant and alterative application, much employed in porrigo, 
psoriasis, crusta lactea, impetigo, psorophthalmia, and a wide 
range of ulcerated and eruptive affections. It is best to dilute 
it, at first, with lard. 

Liquor Hydrargyri Nitratis [Solution of Nitrate of 
Mercury) (Hg0 2 ,2N0 5 ), is made by dissolving 3 troyounces 
of mercury in 5 troyounces of nitric acid, mixed with 6 
fluidrachms of distilled water. It is a dense, transparent, 
nearly colorless liquid, of a strongly acid taste, and is em- 
ployed as a caustic application in malignant ulcers and cutane- 
ous affections. 






IODINE. 289 



IODINIUM — IODINE. 

Iodine is an elementary non-metallic substance, found in the 
vegetable, animal, and mineral kingdoms of nature, — as 
marine plants, oysters, sponges, mineral springs, &c. It is 
chiefly manufactured from kelp (the impure soda obtained 
from the incineration of sea-weeds), in which it exists as an 
iodide of sodium, by the action of sulphuric acid and deutoxide 
of manganese. It occurs in crystalline scales, of a bluish- 
black color and metallic lustre, of a strong, peculiar odor, and 
a hot, acrid taste. It is very volatile — evaporating even at 
common temperatures — is freely soluble in alcohol and ether, 
and but very slightly soluble in water. Its solubility in water 
is very much increased by the addition of certain salts, as the 
iodide of potassium, chloride of sodium, &c. When heated, 
its vapor has a rich violet color, whence its name (from M^, 
violet). Iodine may be detected in very minute quantity by 
starch, which produces with it a deep-blue color ; if in combi- 
nation, the iodine must be first freed with a little nitric acid, 
or still better with chromic acid, (which may be evolved by the 
addition of a single drop of very dilute solution of bichromate 
of potassa, when starch and nitric acid have been employed 
ineffectually). Chloroform has also been proposed as a test. 

Physiological Effects. — Iodine acts locally as an irritant; 
when applied to the skin it stains it yellow, and causes itching, 
redness, and desquamation ; and, when inhaled in the form of 
vapor, it excites cough and heat in the air-passages. Taken 
internally, in medicinal doses, it frequently produces a reme- 
dial alterative and resolvent effect, without any obvious disturb- 
ance of the functions. Usually, patients become thin under 
its use, though sometimes its alterative action on the nutrition 
produces embonpoint. If administered in too large doses, or 
to persons of irritable stomachs, it produces subacute gastro- 
enteritis ; and, when continued for a long time, it will produce 
gastro-enteric symptoms — headache, giddiness, and other evi- 
dences of cerebro-spinal disturbance— marasmus — sometimes 

19 



290 MATERIA MEDICA. 

discoloration of the skin — occasionally salivation — and fre- 
quently a wasting of the mammas and testicles. This train of 
symptoms is termed iodism. The influence of iodine on the 
secretions is uncertain, but it commonly stimulates them. In 
excessive doses, it may act as an irritant poison, and has even 
produced death ; but such a result is rare. Enormous quanti- 
ties have been taken with very slight effects. The antidote is 
starch. The absorption of iodine is shown by its presence in 
the blood and various secretions. 

Medicinal Uses. — Iodine is a most valuable resolvent remedy, 
in chronic visceral and glandular enlargements, indurations, 
thickening of membranes, tumors, &c. It is chiefly employed 
in hronchocele and scrofula, but it is useful in every variety of 
chronic tumor and enlargement ; also as an alterative in 
secondary syphilis and other chronic affections ; and as an 
emmenagogue. Its vapor has been inhaled w T ith benefit in 
chronic bronchitis and phthisis. It is a valuable topical remedy 
and is applied in the form of tincture, with the greatest 
advantage, in the various cutaneous affections, lupus, erysipelas, 
rheumatism, gout, phlegmons, carbuncles, wounds, diseases of 
joints, poisoned parts, to prevent pitting in smallpox, as an 
injection in hydrocele, in encysted bronchocele, and even into 
the pleural cavity in chronic pleurisy, &c, &c. Iodine ranks 
also among the best of the disinfectants, being very available 
from the ease of its application as well as its ready portability. 

Administration. — Iodine is rarely exhibited alone, but usually 
in conjunction with iodide of potassium (see p. 291). To avoid 
gastric irritation, it is best given after a meal, particularly 
when amylaceous substances have been taken, as it forms with 
them iodide of starch. Dose, gr. J— J, two or three times daily. 
Liquor Iodinii Compositus — Compound Solution of Iodine — 
(Iodine 5vj, Iodide of potassium a troyounce and a half, dis- 
tilled water Oj), is the usual preparation in which iodine is ad- 
ministered internally ; dose, six drops, three times a day, in 
sweetened water, and gradually increased. The tincture (a 
troyounce to alcohol Oj) is of a deep-brown color, and under- 
goes a gradual change, when kept long; water precipitates the 



IODIDE OF POTASSIUM. 291 

iodine from it, and hence it is little employed internally; dose, 
gtt. x-xx, repeated and increased. Externally, it is exten- 
sively applied to erysipelatous and poisoned parts, chilblains, in 
cutaneous affections, &c, &c. The compound tincture (iodine 
half a troyounce, iodide of potassium a troyounce, alcohol Oj), 
has the advantage over the tincture, that it rnav be diluted with 
water without decomposition ; dose, gtt. xv-xxx. The oint- 
ment — unguentum iodinii — (made with iodine 3j, iodide of 
potassium gr. iv, water TTLvj, and lard a troyounce), is employed 
as a local application in goitre, scrofulous tumefactions, &c. ; 
it does not keep well. Unguentum iodinii comjjositum (iodine 
15 grains, iodide of potassium 30 grains, water 30 minims, lard 
a troyounce), is used for the same purpose, as the preceding ; 
they both impart an orange color to the skin. Iodine baths 
have been employed, with iodine and iodide of potassium dis- 
solved in water, in a tvooden bath-tub, in the proportion of 
iodine gr. iij, and iodide gr. vj, to a gallon of water. 

Iodine is employed in medicine, in various chemical combi- 
nations. The iodides of iron, lead, and mercury, have been 
noticed. The iodide of starch is highly recommended ; dose, a 
teaspoonful, three times a day, to be increased. The iodide of 
zinc is employed as a tonic and astringent. The iodide of 
sulphur, in the form of ointment, is used in various skin dis- 
eases. 



POTASSII IODIDUM — IODIDE OF POTASSIUM. 

This salt is prepared by treating an aqueous solution of 
potassa with iodine in slight excess. By this process, a mix- 
ture of iodide of potassium and iodate of potassa is obtained, 
and the iodate is afterwards deoxidized and converted into 
iodide by heat and mixture with powdered charcoal. Iodide of 
potassium consists of one equivalent of iodine and potassium, 
each, (KI). It occurs in semi-opaque, white, or transparent 
crystals, permanent in a dry air, rather deliquescent in a moist 
one, of an acrid, saline taste, somewhat like that of common 



292 MATERIA MEDICA. 

salt. It is readily soluble in water and alcohol, and its aque- 
ous solution dissolves iodine, forming ioduretted iodide of potas- 
sium. It is frequently adulterated with other salts. 

Effects and Uses. — The effects of iodide of potassium are 
analogous to those of iodine, but less energetic. Locally, it 
acts as an irritant, and, in large doses, sometimes occasions 
nausea, vomiting, heat of stomach, and purging ; but it may be 
given in larger doses, and for a longer period, than iodine, with- 
out causing gastro-enteric derangement. It stimulates the se- 
cretions, particularly those from mucous membranes, and very 
often produces coryza. Its constitutional effects are power- 
fully alterative and resolvent, and it is employed in broncJwcele, 
scrofula, secondary syphilis, and other chronic diseases, par- 
ticularly those accompanied with enlargements or indurations. 
It is superior to mercury as an anti-syphilitic remedy, when 
the bones and fibrous tissues are affected. In chronic rheum- 
atism and gout, particularly where the fibrous tissues are 
attacked, it is of great efficacy. As a diuretic in dropsy, it has 
been found useful ; and in spasmodic asthma it often gives 
great relief. As an eliminative antidote, in mercurial and 
saturnine poisoning, its action has been already noticed. It 
has been recommended in hydrocephalus; and has recently been 
found to exercise a beneficial operation in the treatment of 
aneurism. 

Administration. — Dose, gr. v-xv, or even more, three times 
a day,. in solution. An ointment (5j to lard a troyounce, with 
water foj) is employed for the same purposes as iodine oint- 
ment, and does not discolor the skin ; it is, however, of feebler 
efficacy. 

Ammonii Iodidum — Iodide of Ammonium (NH 4 I) is made 
by the double decomposition of iodide of potassium and sul- 
phate of ammonia in hot aqueous solution. It occurs as a 
crystalline powder, soluble in water, of a taste like that of 
iodide of potassium, but a little sharper. It has been used in 
the same way as the latter salt. 

Sodii Iodidum — Iodide of Sodium may be made by the 






BROMINE. 293 

double decomposition of iodide of iron and carbonate of soda. 
It is a soluble, white, crystalline salt, used to fulfil the same 
indications as iodide of potassium, than which it is said to be 
better borne. 

Iodoformum — Iodoform is obtained by the action of chlori- 
nated lime upon a heated alcoholic solution of iodide of potas- 
sium. It is a teriodide of formyl (C 2 HI 3 ), and occurs in the 
form of small, pearly, yellow crystals, having a saffron-like 
odor and sweet taste, insoluble in water, but soluble in alcohol 
and ether. It is devoid of irritant action, and produces the 
constitutional effects of iodine, besides an anodyne influence. 
Dose, 1 to 3 grains, three times a day in pill. In the form of 
vapor, it possesses anaesthetic properties, but inferior to those 
of chloroform. 



BROMINIUM BROMINE. 

Bromine is an elementary body, bearing close chemical and 
medicinal affinities to iodine. It is a constituent of sea-water, 
and of many mineral springs. In Europe, it is obtained prin- 
cipally from the mother liquors of the salt mines of Stassfurt, 
in Germany ; in this country, from saline springs in western 
Pennsylvania, Ohio, and West Virginia, in which it exists as 
a bromide of magnesium. It is a volatile, red liquid, of a 
caustic taste, and a strong, disagreeable smell, sparingly solu- 
ble in water, more soluble in alcohol, and still more so in ether. 
Its effects on the system are very analogous to those of iodine, 
and it has been employed as an alterative resolvent in bron- 
chocele, scrofulous tumors, skin diseases, &c, particularly in 
cases in which iodine does not answer, or has lost its activity. 
It is exhibited in aqueous solution (1 part to 40 parts of dis- 
tilled water) ; dose, six drops, several times a day. It is a good 
application in hospital gangrene, and, properly diluted, it is 
used as a wash for ulcers. In overdoses, bromine is an irritant 
poison, and has proved fatal ; ammonia is said to be an anti- 
dote. 



294 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Potassium Bromidum (Bromide of Potssium) (KBr), is pre- 
pared by adding a solution of pure carbonate of potassa to a 
solution of bromide of iron. The iron is precipitated, . and 
bromide of potassium remains in solution, from which it is 
obtained by evaporation. It occurs as a permanent, colorless, 
anhydrous, crystalline salt, of a pungent, saline taste, very 
soluble in water, and slightly soluble in alcohol. Bromide of 
potassium has been used as a substitute for the iodide, in bron- 
chocele, scrofula, chronic cutaneous affections, secondary 
syphilis, fibroid tumors of the uterus, &c, but it is inferior in 
these diseases to the iodic salt. It has, however, proved a very 
efficacious remedy in diseases of the nervous centres, as whoop- 
ing-cough, infantile convulsions, hysteria, laryngismus stridulus, 
and especially epilepsy, over which it is believed now to exert 
more control than any other article of the Materia Medica. In 
the insomnia of mania and of mania-a-potu, it is often effica- 
cious ; and it has been found to be the most efficient remedy 
which we possess in allaying venereal excitement, and hence its 
employment in nymphomania, chordee, &c, and as a preventive 
of masturbation, in prisons, barracks, &c. Given with or before 
opium, it often prevents the unpleasant effects of that article. 
Dose, from five to ten and even twenty grains, several times a 
day. 

Ammonii Bromidum (Bromide of Ammonium) (NH^Br), 
is prepared by dissolving bromine in water of ammonia, or by 
acting on bromide of iron with carbonate of ammonia. It 
occurs in colorless crystals, which, on exposure to the air, 
gradually become yellowish (in consequence of the liberation of 
hydrobromic acid), has a saline, pungent taste, is very soluble in 
water, and moderately soluble in alcohol. Its effects, uses, and 
doses are analagous to those of bromide of potassium. It is 
also highly recommended in doses of ten or fifteen grains every 
two or three hours in acute rheumatism. 

The Bromide of Sodium (NaBr) has lately been employed 
in preference to the bromide of potassium, as having more 
bromine ; and still more recently, the Bromide of Lithium 
(LBr) has been recommended as the most efficacious of the 



COD-LIVER OIL. 295 

bromides. In bromide of potassium there is about 66 per cent, 
of bromine ; in bromide of sodium, 78 per cent. ; and in bromide 
of lithium, nearly 92 per cent. Bromides of iron and mercury 
have been also employed. 

OLEUM MORBHUil COD-LIVER OIL. 

This is a fixed oil, obtained from the liver of Gadus 
Morrhua, or the common cod, — a well-known fish of the North- 
ern Atlantic, — and probably, also, from the livers of several 
other species of Gadus. It is prepared by subjecting the livers 
to heat, either in boilers with water, or by means of steam 
externally applied, and afterwards draining off the liquid por- 
tion, from which the oil separates on standing. It is said to 
be sometimes procured also by expression. Three varieties are 
known, the ivhite or pale-yellow, the brownish-yelloiv, and the 
darJc-brown. They differ chiefly in the mode of preparation — 
the pale being prepared from fresh livers, the dark-broivn from 
those which are collected at sea and have undergone putrefac- 
tive decomposition, and the broivnish yellow from those in which 
putrefaction has only partially commenced. - The pale oil is 
the purest; the dark oil is the most offensive to the taste and 
smell, and the least acceptable to the stomach. 

Cod-liver oil is of the consistence of lamp-oil, and has a pecu- 
liar odor and taste, resembling that of shoe-leather, which is 
usually prepared in the United States with this oil. These sen- 
sible properties are probably the best test of the genuineness 
of the oil, and it should be rejected, if the smell and taste of 
shoe-leather are wanting, or if those of lamp-oil or fish-oil are 
very perceptible. The sp. gr. of the best oil is about 0.917. 
The oil undergoes a gradual change from exposure to the air, 
and should therefore be kept in full and well-stoppered bottles. 
It contains a great variety of chemical constituents, the most 
important of which are fatty acids, several biliary principles, a 
peculiar brown substance called gaduin (which is not, however, 
supposed to be the active ingredient), iodine, chlorine, and traces 
of bromine. 



296 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Cod-liver oil may be distinguished from other oils by the 
agency of sulphuric acid, a drop of which, when added to fresh 
cod-liver oil, on a porcelain plate, causes a centrifugal move- 
ment in the oil, and gives rise to a fine violet color, soon passing 
into yellowish or brownish-red. This reaction is attributable, 
however, to the bile contained in the oil. By the addition of 
ammonia, lime, or potassa, the peculiar volatile principle, pro- 
phylamia (the odorous principle of pickled herring), is devel- 
oped. 

Physiological Effects. — The prolonged use of cod-liver oil, 
in doses which allow it to be retained by the stomach, produces 
very marked beneficial effects in a wide range of chronic dis- 
eases, dependent on a vitiated condition of the functions of 
digestion, assimilation, and nutrition. Its modus medendi is 
not well understood; some therapeutists believing it to act 
merely as a nutritive agent, valuable from the readiness with 
which it is assimilated — others attributing its curative powers 
to an alterative action from the iodine and bromine, or other 
principles which it contains. Its effects are, however, probably 
due merely to its nutrient action, in supplying a sufficiency of 
molecular base for interstitial growth. The biliary principles 
which it contains promote its absorption and appropriation by 
the system. The most striking feature of its action on the 
economy is increase of tv eight ; and, usually, where it fails to 
increase the weight, it is of little service. In large doses, cod- 
liver oil produces nausea and diarrhoea, and these effects occa- 
sionally follow the use of medicinal doses. 

Medicinal Uses. — Cod-liver oil has long been known as a 
remedy in rheumatic diseases ; and within the last twenty years 
it has come into extensive use, as an alterative in tuberculous 
and scrofulous affections. In the treatment of phthisis pulmo- 
nalis, it is now looked upon, in Great Britain and the United 
States, as superior to any other agent, and as possessing an 
undoubted power of arresting the progress of both the general 
and the local symptoms. in this disease. Over the different 
forms of scrofula, it exercises also a very decided control — par- 
ticularly glandular enlargements, ulcers, diseases of the joints 



PREPARATIONS OF ARSENIC. 297 

and spine, ophthalmia, &c. In the various cutaneous affec- 
tions, chronic rheumatism and gout, and the entire circle of 
chronic disorders, in which there is a tendency to marasmus, 
cod-liver oil is now employed. Its peculiar powers and merits 
require, however, to be more fully developed by time. It is 
contraindicated where there is a tendency to congestion or ple- 
thora, and its exhibition should be suspended (temporarily, at 
least) in the treatment of phthisis, when intra-thoracic inflamma- 
tion or hemoptysis is present. Its good effects are most con- 
spicuous, in proportion to the youth of the patient. 

Administration. — Dose, a tablespoonful two or three times a 
day, to be gradually increased as the stomach will permit ; 
and it must be persevered with for a long time before its good 
effects appear. It is best given in some aromatic water, or the 
froth of porter ; audit maybe rendered more acceptable to 
the stomach by combination with one of the mineral acids. 
The union of the oil with lime-water, just enough to form a 
soap, often renders it acceptable to delicate stomachs, and it 
may be flavored with oil of bitter almonds. If it produce 
diarrhoea, astringents should be administered with it. It is 
used as a clyster, in cases of ascarides and lumbricoides ; and, 
externally, in cutaneous affections and opacity of the cornea. 



ARSENICI PRiEPARATA — PREPARATIONS OF 
ARSENIC. 

Metallic arsenic is inert, though, when swallowed, it may 
prove powerfully poisonous, by becoming oxidized and con- 
verted into arsenious acid. It is not used in medicine. 

Acidum Arseniosum {Arsenious Acid), sometimes called 
White Arsenic, Oxide of Arsenic, or Arsenic, is obtained 
principally as a secondary product in the roasting of cobalt 
ores (the arseniurets of cobalt) in Saxony and Bohemia. 
It is afterwards purified by sublimation ; and, when recently 
prepared, occurs in glassy, colorless, transparent masses, of a 
vitreous fracture, which gradually become white and opaque, 



298 MATERIA MEDICA. 

progressively from the surface inwards. It is sometimes kept 
in the shops in the form of a fine white powder ; but, in this 
state, it is liable to adulteration with chalk or sulphate of lime, 
and it should therefore be always purchased in masses. It is 
volatilizable by heat, has no smell, and little or no taste; is 
soluble in water (completely so in boiling water, and more 
readily in either, when transparent than opaque), and also in 
alcohol and oils. Its chemical composition is one equivalent 
of arsenic and three equivalents of oxygen (AsO s ). Arsenic 
acid is composed of one equivalent of metal and five equiva- 
lents of oxygen. 

Tests. — Owing to the frequent use of arsenious acid as a 
poison, a knowledge of the means of detecting its presence is 
of great importance. In the solid state, it may be recognized 
in the first place by its volatility ; secondly, when thrown on 
burning charcoal, it is deoxidized, and gives out the garlicky 
odor of metallic arsenic ; and, thirdly, if heated in a glass 
tube with charcoal or black flux, it sublimes and condenses in 
the form of a metallic crust. In aqueous solution, arsenious 
acid may be detected by the following reagents : sulphuretted 
hydrogen, which produces a lemon or sulphur-yellow sulphuret 
of arsenic ; ammoniacal nitrate of silver, which produces a 
canary-yellotv arsenite of silver ; and ammoniacal sulphate of 
copper, which produces an apple or grass-green arsenite of 
copper. The sulphuret of arsenic may be reduced^and made 
to yield metallic arsenic, if heated with soda-flux or potash- 
flux. The most delicate test, however, of arsenious acid in 
solution is that of nascent hydrogen, termed Marsh's test. 
When the acid is submitted to the action of nascent hydrogen 
(evolved by the action of diluted sulphuric acid on zinc), it is 
deoxidized, and unites with the hydrogen to form arseniuretted 
hydrogen gas. This gas has a garlicky odor, and is recognized 
by its burning with a bluish-white flame, which deposits on a 
plate of glass or porcelain, held over the jet, a black spot or 
ring, surrounded by a larger white ring of arsenious acid. 
Another test is that of Reinsch, and consists in boiling a solu- 
tion of the acid with muriatic acid and copper-foil or wire, 



PREPARATIONS OF ARSENIC. 299 

when the latter acquires a whitish coating of metallic arsenic. 
When arsenious acid is dissolved with liquid organic substances, 
it should first be separated from insoluble matters by filtration, 
and the metallic arsenic may be then obtained by Reinsclis 
process ; and the liquid or subliming tests afterwards applied. 
If the poison be mixed with solid organic substances, they 
should be cut up and boiled with water, acidulated with muriatic 
acid, and the solution afterwards filtered, and again boiled, &c. 

Physiological Effects. — Arsenious acid acts locally as an 
oscharotic, by destroying the vitality of the parts to which it 
is applied. Its effects, when it is taken internally, in medicinal 
doses, are not, at first, very obvious. When continued for some 
time, it generally produces more or less heat and dryness of 
the throat and stomach, with nausea, increased secretion from 
the bowels and kidneys, irritation of the conjunctiva, and a 
peculiar swelling of the face, termed oedema arsenicalis ; after 
the latter symptom appears, the medicine should be suspended. 
In too long-continued or too large medicinal doses, arsenious 
acid sometimes produces a sort of chronic poisoning, charac- 
terized by disorder of the digestive apparatus, conjunctivitis, 
oedema, salivation, a cutaneous eruption, loss of the hair and nails, 
paralysis, convulsions, and, if its use be persevered in, coma 
and delirium may result, terminating in death. In excessive 
doses, arsenious acid is a violent poison, usually destroying life 
by gastro-enteritis, in from one to two or three days. When 
very large quantities are taken, it sometimes acts on the cere- 
bro-spinal system, producing death by narcotism, in a few 
hours. Occasionally, gastro-enteric and cerebro-spinal symp- 
toms both occur. A few grains of arsenious acid may prove 
fatal. 

Dissections, in cases of poisoning from this agent, reveal 
redness (sometimes accompanied with extravasations of blood), 
ulceration, softening, effusion of lymph, and even gangrene, 
in the alimentary canal. The blood is often fluid and dark- 
colored. The absorption of arsenious acid into the system, 
after its administration, is shown by its presence in the blood, 
animal tissues, urine, &c. 



300 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Antidotes and Treatment in eases of Poisoning. — The evacu- 
ation of the contents of the stomach, by the stomach-pump or 
emetics, should be the first object in these cases. Demulcent 
drinks are to be also freely given. The hydrated sesquiox- 
ide of irox should be administered, as soon as it can be pro- 
cured, in the state of pulp or magma. It is prepared by the 
action of an alkaline solution on a sesqui-salt of iron; solution 
of ammonia is directed by the U. S. Pharmacopoeia, to be 
added to a solution of the tersulpliate of iron (see p. 127). 
The hydrated sesquioxide of iron is a soft, moist, reddish-brown 
magma, which acts as an antidote to arsenious acid, by forming 
with it an insoluble, inert, subarseniate of protoxide of iron. 
The dose is about twelve times the supposed amount of poison 
taken, and it should be given in the fresh and pulpy state, as 
it gradually loses its antidotical virtues when kept. The sac- 
charated oxide of iron (see p. 125) has also lately been em- 
ployed as an antidote, and even the subcarbonate (sesquioxide) 
of iron also acts as an antidote, but this is much less powerful 
than the pulpy hydrate. Light magnesia (which has not been 
too strongly calcined), and freshly-precipitated gelatinous magne- 
sia, may be also used as antidotes. The after treatment consists 
in the use of demulcents, opiates, and, if necessary, stimulants. 

Medicinal Uses. — Arsenious acid is a very valuable altera- 
tive remedy, but it must be exhibited with caution. It is em- 
ployed with the greatest success in the treatment of malarial 
affections, as intermittent fevers, especially such as have resisted 
the use of bark, or frequently reappeared ; in chronic cutane- 
ous affections, particularly the scaly diseases (lepra, psoriasis, 
and pityriasis) ; also in certain affections of the nervous system, 
chorea in particular, over which it exercises a marked control ; 
in chronic rheumatism, in phthisis, and in the tertiary forms of 
syphilis. As an external application, arsenious acid has been 
applied to indolent sinuses, lupus, onychia maligna, &c, either 
pure or mixed with several parts of sulphur; its use is, how- 
ever, attended with danger of constitutional effects. It is an 
ingredient of various empirical compounds, employed in the 
treatment of cancer. 



PREPARATIONS OF ARSENIC. 301 

Administration. — Dose, gr. Jg to J 2 , in pills with bread- 
crumb, three times a day, to be reduced when conjunctivitis 
appears, and suspended after the establishment of the cedema 
arsenicalis ; and, after being taken a fortnight, it should always 
be intermitted for a day or two. It is less apt to occasion 
gastric irritability, when given immediately after a meal. The 
usual and safer form of exhibiting this remedy, is that of solu- 
tion with potash. 

Liquor Potassa Arsenitis {Solution of Arsenite of Po- 
tassa), or Foivlers Solution. This is prepared by boiling 64 
grains of arsenious acid and bicarbonate of potassa, each, in 
12 fluidounces of distilled w T ater, adding half a fluidounce of 
compound spirit of lavender, and afterwards water enough to 
make the solution measure a pint. It is a transparent liquid, 
of an alkaline reaction, and has the color, taste, and smell of 
spirit of lavender. It is a solution of the arsenite of potassa 
(KO,As0 3 ), and is decomposed by the reagents which act upon 
arsenic, and is incompatible with infusions and decoctions of 
cinchona. Its effects and uses are analogous to those of 
arsenious acid, though some practitioners have denied their 
therapeutic identity. The antidote is the subacetate of the 
sesquioxide of iron, which renders inert all the salts of the 
acids of arsenic. Dose, gtt. v to gtt. x, and even gtt. xx, 
three times a day. Each fluidrachm contains half a grain of 
arsenious acid. A solution of arsenite of soda has also been 
employed. 

Arsenict Iodidum {Iodide of arsenic), made by rubbing 
iodine and arsenic together, is a teriodide, consisting of one 
eq. of arsenic and three eq. of iodine (Asl 3 ). It is an orange- 
red, crystalline, volatilizable solid, wholly soluble in water, and 
has been used both internally and externally in skin diseases. 
Dose, gr. J, three times a day; for external use, gr. iij to lard 

Liquor Arsenici et Hydrargyri Iodidi {Solution of 
Iodide of Arsenic and Mercury). This solution, known as 
Donovans Solution, is prepared by dissolving 35 grains of 
iodide of arsenic and red iodide of mercury, each, in half a 



302 MATERIA MEDICA. 

pint of distilled water. It is considered by some chemists to 
be merely an aqueous solution of the two iodides ; by others, a 
solution of hydriodates of the oxides of the two metals. It has 
a pale-yellow color, a slightly styptic taste, and is incompatible 
with the salts of morphia. 

Effects and Uses. — This is a highly valuable alterative pre- 
paration, in the various forms of papular and scaly cutaneous 
affections, and in obstinate syphilis. It was introduced by 
Mr. Donovan, of Dublin, in 1839, and has been a good deal 
employed in the United States. Dose, gtt. v to gtt. xx or 
more, three times a day. 



CALCIS PHOSPHAS PR^CIPITATA — PRECIPITATED 
PHOSPHATE OF LIME. 

This salt is made by reacting upon bone-ash with muriatic 
acid, which dissolves the phosphate of lime in the bones, and 
gives it up again, on the addition of ammonia. It is a white, 
inodorous, tasteless, insoluble powder sometimes called the 
bone phosphate of lime (3CaO,P0 5 ). It has been, for some years 
past, employed in connection with other phosphates, as those 
of iron, soda, and potassa, in scrofula and phthisis, under a 
theoretical view that there is a deficiency of phosphorus in the 
system in these diseases. An ample supply of the phosphates 
is, however, derived from the food, although they may prove 
useful medicinally, from other causes. Dose, ten to thirty 
grains. 



AMMONIA MTTRIAS — MURIATE OF AMMONIA. 

This salt, commonly termed sal ammoniac, is obtained from 
the gas-liquor of coal gas works, and also in the preparation of 
animal charcoal from bones. It is brought m the crude state 
from Calcutta to England, where it is refined and exported. 
It occurs in white, translucent, tough, fibrous, hemispherical, 
convex-concave cakes, about two inches thick, difficult to 



PHOSPHATE OF AMMONIA. 303 

powder, inodorous, of a pungent, saline taste, slightly delique 
cent, very soluble in water, and less so in alcohol. It consists 
of one eq. of muriatic acid and one of ammonia, (NH S ,HC1) 
and is considered by some chemists to be a chloride of ammo- 
nium (NH 4 C1). 

Effects and Uses. — The local action- of muriate of ammonia 
is that of an irritant. In large doses it purges. In small 
doses, after absorption, it proves a powerful resolvent alterative, 
with a slight sedative action on the vascular system, and an 
increased flow of the secretions generally. It is 1 not much 
employed in Great Britain or the United States, but it " is I 
extensively used in Germany — as a refrigerant sedative in 
mild fevers attended with stoppage of the secretions — as a 
resolvent in organic enlargements — in amenorrhea — and in 
catarrhs, urethritis, &c. Of late, this salt has been used with 
advantage in muscular rheumatism and in neuralgia ; and its 
resolvent powers are highly spoken of in fibroid tumors of 
the uterus. Dose, gr. v-xxx, every two or three hours, in 
powder or mucilaginous solution. Externally, it is used in 
solution (immediately upon being dissolved), as a refrigerant 
lotion (,§i to half a pint of water), in cutaneous affections and 
indolent ulcers (5i to half a pint of water), and also as a 
discutient. 



AMMONIA PHOSPHAS PHOSPHATE OF AMMOXIA. 

Although not officinal, this salt enjoys considerable reputa- 
tion as an alterative. It is made by adding Stronger Solution of 
Ammonia to Diluted Phosphoric Acid, evaporating and crystal- 
lizing. It occurs in transparent colorless crystals, having the 
form of six-sided tables, of an alkaline, somewhat saline taste, 
soluble in water and insoluble in alcohol. As usually found in 
the shops, it is a mixture of the neutral and of the acid phos- 
phate of ammonia. 

Effects and Uses. — It has been used in this country as a 
remedy in gout and rheumatism, and is highly esteemed. In 



304 MATERIA MEDICA. 

combination with carbonate of ammonia and aromatic spirit of 
ammonia, it has been also lately used with advantage in diabetes. 
Dose, ten to forty grains, three or four times a day, dissolved in 
an aromatic water. 



POTASSA CHLORAS — CHLORATE OF POTASSA. 

This salt is prepared by various processes : a good one is by 
reacting upon solution of caustic potassa, mixed with lime, with 
a stream of chlorine — the chlorine is converted into chloric 
acid by oxygen from the lime, and the acid combines with the 
potassa to form chlorate of potassa (KO,C10 5 ). It is a white 
anhydrous salt, crystallizing in rhomboidal plates of a pearly 
lustre, and is inodorous, and of a cool, saline taste. It is but 
little changed by exposure to the air, soluble in cold water, 
highly so in boiling water. It is said to be soluble in all the 
animal fluids without decomposing them, or undergoing change 
itself. 

Effects and Uses. — Chlorate of potassa, when taken inter- 
nally, gives a bright arterial tinge to the venous blood, reduces 
the volume and frequency of the pulse, and largely increases 
the secretion of urine, by which it passes out of the system 
unchanged. The appetite is improved under its use, and sali- 
vation is an occasional effect. Large doses may be taken with 
impunity, but excessive quantities have produced fatal gastro- 
enteric inflammation. As it contains a large supply of oxygen, 
it was at first employed, with a view to its oxidizing influence in 
contaminated conditions of the blood, as in malignant fevers, 
syphilis, &c. ; and, whatever the modus medendi, it is still con- 
sidered a valuable alterative in typhus, scarlatina, &c. Pro- 
bably, its most positive remedial effects are seen in various 
forms of stomatitis, follicular, mercurial, and gangrenous. It 
is also used in diphtheria, croup, cyanosis, asthma, and even 
neuralgia. Externally, in solution, it is an admirable wash or 
gargle in stomatitis, ozoena, the sore throat of scarlatina, diph- 
theria, and fetid ulcerated surfaces generally. Dose, internally, 



PERMANGANATE OF POTASSA. 305 

fifteen to thirty grains, every three or four hours, in some 
pleasant vehicle. For external use, 5ij-iv may be dissolved in 
half a pint of water. 



POTASS^l BICHROMAS — BICHROMATE OF POTASSA. 

This salt is obtained from the yellow chromate of potassa, 
by acidulating its solution with sulphuric acid, which abstracts 
an eq. of potassa from two eq. of the neutral salt, and thus 
generates the bichromate (KO,2Cr0 3 ) ; it separates in orange- 
red crystals, soluble in water, insoluble in alcohol, and of a 
cooling, bitter taste. 

Effects and Uses. — It is an irritant caustic, acting in over- 
doses as a corrosive poison, for which the proper antidotes are 
magnesia, soap, and the alkaline carbonates. In small doses, it 
is alterative, and has been used in syphilis, with encouraging re- 
sults. In larger doses, it is emetic. Externally, it is a good 
application, in powder, or in saturated solution, to syphilitic 
warts, excrescences, &c. Dose, as an alterative, gr. J daily, in 
pill, with some bitter extract ; as an emetic, gr. f . 



POTASSA PERMANGANAS — PERMANGANATE OF 
POTASSA. 

This salt is made by heating together the black or binoxide 
of manganese with caustic potassa ; the binoxide is converted 
into manganic acid, and afterwards into permanganic acid, 
which combines with the potassa to produce permanganate 
(KO,Mn 2 7 ). It occurs in the form of slender prismatic crys- 
tals, of a dark purple color, inodorous and of a sweetish astrin- 
gent taste. It dissolves readily in water, making a beautiful 
lilac solution. 

Effects and Uses.— There is little experience, as regards the 
action of this salt, when administered internally, although 
alterative effects are attributed to it (and probably with 
reason), in poisoned conditions of the blood, as in malignant 

20 



306 MATERIA MEDICA. 

fevers, diphtheria, &c, It is as a powerful disinfectant, that it 
at present* claims chief attention, and it now ranks at the head 
of this class of agents, in destroying fetid odors, and poisonous 
organic emanations. It is used externally, in dressing foul 
and fetid or gangrenous ulcers, particularly in hospital gan- 
grene, as an application to carbuncles, as a gargle in diphthe- 
ria, &c. It may be sprinkled in powder on gangrenous 
surfaces, or applied in solution, of the strength of half an 
ounce, an ounce, or two ounces to a pint of water. As a 
disinfectant, a solution of from one to ten grains to an ounce 
of water, may be exposed in saucers, or sprinkled on the floor, 
or thrown into the air in spray by the atomizer. One to three 
grains may be given internally in solution, through the day. 



AQUA CHLORINII — CHLORINE WATER. 

This is an aqueous solution of chlorine, which is generated 
by heating 3 troyounces of muriatic acid, diluted with 2 fluid- 
ounces of water, with half a troyounce of black oxide of man- 
ganese. The chlorine is conducted by suitable tubes, through 
2 fluidounces of water, into a bottle containing 20 fluidounces 
of distilled water, with whinh it is agitated, and the chlorine 
water is afterwards transferred to a well-stoppered bottle, made 
impervious to light. It does not keep well. It occurs as a 
pale, yellowish-green liquid, having an astringent taste and the 
peculiar odor of the gas. Its employment internally is chiefly 
in essential malignant fevers, as scarlatina and typhus, also in 
syphilis and diseases of the liver. Dose, f5i-iv, diluted. 
Externally, it is used, diluted, as a wash in skin diseases, as an 
antiseptic, and by inhalation in bronchial affections. In case 
of poisoning by chlorine, albumen is the best antidote. 



CALX CHLORINATA — CHLORINATED LIME. 

This preparation, often called chloride of lime (CaO,Cl), is 
prepared by passing chlorine over lime, till saturation is 









PEROXIDE OF HYDROGEN. 307 

effected, and occurs as a loose, grayish-white powder, readily 
soluble in water, of a bitter, caustic taste, and a faint odor of 
chlorine. It has been used as an alterative, in typhus, malig- 
nant scarlatina, syphilis, &c, in doses of from one to five 
grains, in solution, several times a day ; and as a wash, exter- 
nally, one part dissolved in a hundred parts of water — or as a 
paste. It is chiefly, however, as a disinfectant that it is em- 
ployed. Its effects are' essentially those of chlorine, like which 
it decomposes hydrosulphuric and hydrocyanic acids, and 
should not be given with mercurials. 

Liquor Sode Chlorinate [Solution of Chlorinated Soda) 
(NaO,Cl), sometimes termed Labarraques disinfecting liquid, 
is made by decomposing a solution of carbonate of soda by one 
of chlorinated lime. It is a transparent, greenish-yellow 
liquid, with a faint smell of chlorine, a sharp saline taste, and 
an alkaline reaction. It has been used internally, to fulfil the 
same indications as chlorinated lime, in doses of thirty drops 
to a teaspoonful, diluted, several times a day. It is useful 
also, in dilution of various strengths, as an external application 
to every form of fetid ulcer, and it is a most valuable and 
powerful disinfectant. 

Peroxide or Hydrogen (H0 2 ), has lately been added to 
our list of alteratives. It may be prepared in numerous ways, 
the only practically useful ones being based upon the decom- 
position of peroxide of barium by means of an acid in 
presence of water. The most satisfactory method is to pass 
a rapid current of pure carbonic acid through distilled water, 
peroxide of barium being added in small quantities, care being 
taken to have the acid always in excess. After filtration, the 
solution is concentrated under the receiver of an air-pump. It 
is (in the form of a concentrated aqueous solution) a colorless, 
transparent liquid, less volatile than water, of a bitter taste, 
having a sp. gr. 1.452, and is incompatible with many sub- 
stances, as all vegetable tinctures, the citrates and tartrates of 
the alkalies and of iron, hydrocyanic acid, sulphate, chloride, 
and nitrate salts, &c. 



308 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Peroxide of hydrogen is an active oxidizing agent, and has 
been found highly efficacious in diabetes, in the dyspnoea of 
cardiac and pulmonic diseases, in promoting the blood-action 
of iron, and its use has also been suggested as an anti-syphi- 
litic remedy, in gout, and in epilepsy and other diseases of 
irritable action of the nerve-centres. The strength of the 
solution should be such that the peroxide on decomposition 
should yield a volume of oxygen ten times as great as the 
volume of the solvent : dose, one to four fluidrachms three 
times a day. 

Locally, it has been applied with advantage to ill-conditioned 
ulcers. Under the name of Ozonic Ether, a solution of per- 
oxide of hydrogen in ether has been used successfully in 
diabetes, in doses of from ten to thirty minims, up to a drachm. 
It is also employed in the form of spray, as a disinfectant, and 
as an application to ulcerated, fetid, or sloughing surfaces ; 
and it has been inhaled with advantage to relieve the cough of 
phthisis. 

ORDER III. — ANTACIDS. 

Antacids are medicinal agents, employed to neutralize acids 
in the blood, primae viae, and secretions. The alkalies and 
alkaline earths, and their carbonates, are the substances 
included in this division. The alkalies, in the concentrated 
state, destroy organization and act as corrosive poisons ; they 
are administered internally only in a state of extreme dilution. 
The alkaline carbonates produce a less intense chemical action 
on the tissues than the alkalies ; and the bicarbonates are less 
active than the monocarbonates. The alkaline earths, particu- 
larly magnesia, are less energetic in their local action than the 
alkalies proper ; and their carbonates manifest little or no 
chemical influence over the tissues. 

When swallowed in a state of dilution, the alkaline prepara- 
tio?is combine with the free acids which they encounter in the 
stomach. The salts which are thus formed, unless carried off 
by the bowels, are absorbed into the blood, and are thrown out 



ANTACIDS. 309 

by the secretions, especially by the kidneys. While in the 
stomach, besides neutralizing acids, the alkalies also promote 
the digestion and absorption of fatty substances, by forming 
with them an emulsion. After absorption, they exert a lique- 
facient action on the blood, and render the urine alkaline. 
Their long-continued use disorders the functions of digestion 
and nutrition, produces a chronic deterioration of the blood, 
and sets up a cachetic condition somewhat analogous to 
scurvy. 

In the concentrated form, the alkalies are employed as 
eschar otics. The various alkaline preparations are administered 
internally, in the diluted form : 1. As antacids, in dyspepsia, 
accompanied with excess of acid in the primse vise, and they 
are probably also of advantage, in dyspeptic cases, by pro- 
moting the digestion of fatty matters. The neutralization of 
acid, in dyspepsia, by the alkaline preparations, is chiefly 
palliative ; although their continued use often diminishes tem- 
porarily the tendency to acid secretion. The vegetable tonics 
and aromatics are frequently combined with antacids, very 
advantageously, in the treatment of dyspepsia. 2. As anti- 
dotes, in cases of poisoning from acids. 3. As antilithics, to 
neutralize lithic acid, when it is separated in undue quantity 
by the urine ; and, also, as lithontriptics, or solvents of calculi," 
especially lithates. They are improper when there is a ten- 
dency to the deposition of phosphates. 4. In the treatment of 
acute rheumatism and gout, where they act by neutralizing the 
excess of acid, with which the blood is charged in these diseases. 
5. To relieve irritability of the urinary organs — ardor urinae 
in gonorrhoea — cutaneous irritation — uterine irritation — pruri- 
tus ani, &c, — when these conditions of irritability are depend- 
ent, as is often the case, on excess of acid in the system. 6. 
As diuretics (see p. 245). 7. As antiplastics and resolvents, in 
inflammation. 

The antacid preparations should be administered in a state 
of large dilution, with a view to facilitate their absorption, and 
to prevent an irritant and purgative action on the bowels. 



310 MATERIA MEDICA. 



POTASS^ PE^PARATA — PREPARATIONS OF POTASS A. 

The preparations of potassa, employed as antacids, are the 
Solution of Potassa, Carbonate of Potassa, and Bicarbonate of 
Potassa. Besides their antacid, anaplastic, and diuretic uses, 
the salts of potassa have been administered therapeutically in the 
treatment of scurvy. This employment of them is based upon 
the opinion, that scurvy is the result of a deficiency of potash 
in the food ; and that by the exhibition of some saline prepara- 
tion of these alkalies, the necessary alimentary ingredient is 
restored. 

Liquor Potassa (Solution of Potassa), is prepared by the 
action of lime on a solution of bicarbonate of potassa ; the lime 
abstracts carbonic acid from the carbonate, and precipitates as 
carbonate of lime, leaving the free potassa in solution ; or it 
may be made, more directly, by dissolving a troyounce of 
potassa in a pint of distilled water. Solution of potassa is a 
limpid, colorless liquid, without smell, of an acrid, caustic taste, 
and an alkaline reaction. 

Effects and Uses. — The antacid, diuretic, antilithic, and 
resolvent properties and indications of this preparation have 
been described above. It is more irritant to the stomach than 
the carbonates of potassa, and is therefore less eligible for pro- 
tracted use. In excessive quantity, it may act as an irritant 
and corrosive poison ; oils and vegetable acids should be ad- 
ministered as antidotes. Dose, gtt. x-xx, largely diluted with 
sweetened water or mucilage. Externally, it is used, in a 
diluted state, as a stimulant lotion. 

Potassa Carbonas (Carbonate of Potassa). This salt, as 
usually kept in the shops, is prepared by the purification of 
the impure carbonate of potassa, known as pearlash, which is 
obtained from wood-ashes, by lixiviation. Carbonate of potassa 
occurs in the form of a white, coarse, granular powder, of a 
nauseous, alkaline taste, and an alkaline reaction, — very solu- 
ble in water, but insoluble in alcohol. It is very deliquescent, 
forming, if long exposed to the air, an oily liquid with the 



PREPARATIONS OF SODA. 311 

water which it attracts. It consists of one equivalent of car- 
bonic acid, one of potassa (KO,C0 2 ), and two or three equiva- 
lents of water. Acids, acidulous salts, and many other sub- 
stances are incompatible with it. It is employed as an ant- 
acid, diuretic, antilithic, &c, in the dose of gr. x-xx, in 
some sweetened aromatic water. In large quantities, it acts as 
a corrosive poison, for which oils and vegetable acids are the 
antidotes. 

As the purified pearlash of the shops is always more or less 
impure, a better salt for internal use is — 

Potassa Carbonas Pura {Pure Carbonate of Potassa), 
commonly called Salt of Tartar, from its having been formerly 
obtained from cream of tartar. It is now made by calcining 
bicarbonate of potassa, which is thus deprived of its water of 
crystallization and an equivalent of carbonic acid, and is re- 
duced to the state of carbonate. It differs from purified pearl- 
ash only in containing no impurities. 

Potassa Bicarbonas (Bicarbonate of Potassa), is made by 
passing carbonic acid through an aqueous solution of carbonate 
of potassa, till it is fully saturated. By filtration and evapo- 
ration, it is obtained in transparent, colorless crystals, having 
the shape of irregular eight-sided prisms with two-sided sum- 
mits. They are inodorous, of a slight alkaline taste, perma- 
nent in the air, soluble in water, insoluble in alcohol, and 
consist of two equivalents of carbonic acid, one of potassa 
(KO,2C0 2 ), and one of water. The effects and uses of this 
salt are the same as those of the carbonate, but it is pleasanter 
in taste and less irritant to the stomach. Dose, 3j to 5j« I n 
acute rheumatism, this dose may be repeated every hour or 
two. 



SOD.E PRJ3PARATA — PREPARATIONS OF SODA. 

Liquor SoDiE (Solution of Soda), is prepared by the action 
of lime on a solution of carbonate of soda. Its properties are 
the same as those of solution of potassa. 



312 MATERIA MEDICA. 

The only preparations of soda, generally employed as ant- 
acids, are the carbonates. There are several sources of car- 
bonated soda. The native carbonate (called natron), is found 
in Egypt, Hungary, and other countries. Impure soda, ob- 
tained from the ashes of marine plants, is termed barilla, or 
help, — barilla, when it is derived from phenogamous plants 
growing near the sea, and kelp, when procured from crypto- 
gamic plants growing in the sea. Carbonate of soda is now, 
however, chiefly made by artificial means, from sulphate of 
soda, which is obtained in part from the manufacturers of chlo- 
rinated lime, but principally by the action of sulphuric acid on 
chloride of sodium. The sulphate of soda is fused with ground 
limestone and coal, and forms a black mass called British ba- 
rilla, which consists of a mixture of oxysulphuret of calcium, 
caustic lime, and coaly matter, with carbonate of soda. It is 
afterwards purified by lixiviation, calcination, and other pro- 
cesses. By another process, artificial soda is made by decom- 
posing the sulphate with sesquioxide of iron and coal. Within 
a few years past, caustic soda and the carbonates and other 
salts of soda have been manufactured near Pittsburg, in 
Pennsylvania, from cryolite (a fluoride of sodium and aluminum), 
which is found in an immense deposit in Greenland, and largely 
imported into Philadelphia. Soda is obtained from cryolite by 
mixing it with lime and subjecting it to heat ; the fluorine com- 
bines with the calcium, forming fluoride of calcium, while the 
remaining metals absorb oxygen from the air, and become alu- 
mina and soda, carbonic acid being afterwards passed through 
the solution, to form carbonate of soda, the insoluble alumina 
being deposited. 

Sod^: Carbonas [Carbonate of Soda), crystallizes in large, 
oblique, rhombic prisms, which are transparent, very efflores- 
cent, of an alkaline, disagreeable taste, soluble in water, but 
insoluble in alcohol. When heated, they undergo the watery 
fusion, and part with their water of crystallization, which is 
entirely expelled at a red heat. The chemical composition of 
the salt is one equivalent of carbonic acid and one of soda 
(NaO,C0 2 ); and perfect crystals have ten equivalents of water 



PREPARATIONS OF SODA. 313 

of crystallization. It is apt to contain sulphate of soda and 
common salt as impurities. Acids, acidulous salts, lime-water, 
earthy and metallic salts, &c, are incompatible with carbonate 
of soda. 

Effects and Uses. — Carbonate of soda is less irritant, and has 
a milder and more agreeable taste, than carbonate of potash. 
Its effects are otherwise similar, and it is administered in the 
same cases. In overdoses, it is a corrosive poison, for which 
oils and acids are the antidotes. Dose, gr. x to 5ss, in powder, 
or dissolved in some bitter infusion. Owing to the variable 
quantity of water of crystallization which it contains, as kept 
in the shops, it is best given in the dried state. 

Sod^e Carbonas Exsiccata (Dried Carbonate of Soda). 
This salt is deprived of its water of crystallization by heat, and 
occurs in the form of a white powder. Dose, gr. v-xv, in pill, 
made with soap and aromatics. 

Sod^: Bicarbonas (Bicarbonate of Soda), is prepared by 
saturating the carbonate with carbonic acid. In the process 
followed in this country, the water contained in the carbonate, 
which is liberated during the progress of its saturation, is 
drained off. Thus obtained, the crystals have the form of the 
carbonate, but are opaque and porous. They usually occur 
in granular masses, of a snow-white color, which are found in 
the shops in the form of powder. It is a permanent salt, of a 
slightly alkaline taste, and consists of two eq. of carbonic acid, 
one of soda, (NaO,2C0 2 ), and one of water. By exposure to 
heat, it gradually parts with its carbonic acid, and at a red heat 
is converted into the anhydrous carbonate. 

The effects and uses of this salt are the same as those of the 
carbonate, but it is less irritant and of a more agreeable taste. 
When administered as an antilithic, it is said to be less liable 
than the carbonate to induce phosphatic deposits. It has been 
used as a liquefacient, in infantile croup, in the dose of gr. j, 
every five minutes, to promote the expulsion of false membrane. 
Dose, for an adult, gr. x to 5ss, which may be pleasantly taken 
in carbonic acid water, or made into lozenges with sugar and 
mucilage of tragacanth. Soda Poivders consist of tartaric acid 



314 MATERIA MEDICA. 

(gr. xxv) in one paper, and bicarbonate of soda (gr. xxx) *in 
another. They are dissolved in separate portions of water, to 
the amount of half a pint in all, and, when mixed, form a 
pleasant effervescing draught. Bicarbonate of soda is an in- 
gredient also of Seidltiz Powders (see p. 221). Troches of 
bicarbonate of soda are made by mixing 4 troyounces of bicar- 
bonate of soda with 12 troyounces of sugar, and making a mass 
with mucilage of tragacanth, to be divided into troches, each 
weighing 10 grains. 



LITHI^E PR^EPARATA — PREPARATIONS OF LITHIA. 

Lithia is a rare alkali, found in a few minerals. The carbo- 
nate (lithice carbonas) is prepared from lepidolite, or from 
sulphate of lithia or chloride of lithium, by adding carbonate of 
ammonia. It is a white powder, of a mild alkaline taste, soluble 
in 100 parts of water, more soluble in carbonic acid water, and 
insoluble in alcohol. It consists of one eq. of lithia and one of 
carbonic acid (LO,C0 2 ). 

It is a very valuable antacid in gout, from the fact of its low 
combining number, and the great solubility of the urate of 
lithia, thus enabling the carbonate to act powerfully in elimi- 
nating uric acid from the system. It is also a good diuretic. 
Dose, three to five grains, best given in carbonic acid water. 

Lithia Citras (Citrate of Lithia) (3LO,C 12 H 5 O n ), a deli- 
quescent white powder, is made by adding a solution of citric 
acid to the carbonate of lithia. It is converted into a carbon- 
ate in the system, and is, therefore, possessed of the same 
properties. 



AMMONIA PRiEPARATA — PREPARATIONS OF 
AMMONIA. 

The preparations of ammonia (previously noticed umder the 
head of Stimulants, p. 167), are administered as antacids, in 
cases in which a stimulant action is not objectionable. Spiritus 



PREPARATIONS OP LIME. 315 

Ammonice Aromaticus (Aromatic Spirit of Ammonia), is the 
preparation usually employed, and is an excellent antacid car- 
minative in heartburn, attended with flatulence, nausea with 
syncope, &c. Dose, gtt. xxx-f5j. 



MAGNESIA PRiEPARATA — PREPARATIONS OF 
MAGNESIA. 

Magnesia (p. 215), and its Carbonate (p. 216), are employed 
as antacids in dyspepsia, sick-headache, gravel, &c, particu- 
larly where a laxative effect is also desirable. Dose, gr. x-xxx. 
Troches of Magnesia are made by mixing 4 troyounces. of mag- 
nesia, 60 grains of nutmeg, and 12 troyounces of sugar, and 
forming with mucilage of tragacanth a mass, to be divided into 
troches, weighing 10 grains each. 

CALCIS PR.EPARATA — PREPARATIONS OF LIME. 

The preparations of lime, employed as antacids, are Lime- 
water^ Precipitated Carbonate of Lime, Prepared Chalk, and 
Prepared Oyster-shell. They are very useful in cases of 
acidity or irritability of the stomach, but their action on the 
bowels is the reverse of that of magnesia, and hence they can 
hardly be administered where there is a tendency to consti- 
pation. They are also much employed in diarrhoea, and occa- 
sionally as alterative resolvents in glandular enlargements, as 
antispasmodics in nervous disorders, and to relieve irritability 
of the bladder from calculus. 

Liquor Calcis (Solution of Lime — Lime-water), is a satu- 
rated solution of lime (four troyounces) in distilled, river, or 
rain water (eight pints). It is a colorless, inodorous liquid, of 
a disagreeable alkaline taste. By exposure to the air it gradu- 
ally absorbs carbonic acid, with the formation of insoluble car- 
bonate of lime. It should, therefore, be kept in full, well- 
stoppered bottles, or they should contain some undissolved 
lime. 

Effects arid Uses.— Lime-water combines antacid and astrin- 



316 MATERIA MEDICA. 

gent properties, and is applicable to all the cases in which anta- 
cids are proper, where an astringent effect on the bowels is 
not objectionable. It is an excellent remedy in gastric irrita- 
bility, attended with nausea and vomiting, and may be given 
mixed with an equal part of milk, which disguises its unpleasant 
taste. A diet of milk and lime-water is very useful in dyspepsia, 
accompanied with vomiting of food. Lime-water is employed 
also in diarrhoea, after inflammation has been subdued, in dia- 
betes, and as an alterative resolvent in glandular affections. 
Externally, it is used as a wash in tinea capitis, prurigo, scabies, 
&c, as an application to foul ulcers, and as an injection in 
leucorrhoea and gleet; atomized inhalations of lime-water have 
been found useful in diphtheria. Dose, internally, fSss to 
foiij-iv, several times a day; for children, f5j. Linimentum 
Calcis (eight fluidounces of lime-water, mixed with seven troy- 
ounces of flaxseed oil, sometimes called Carron oil), is an in- 
valuable liniment in burns and scalds, and in small-pox. 

Calcis Carbonas Pr^cipitata (Precipitated Carbonate of 
Lime, (CaO,C0 2 ), is made by mixing boiling solutions of chlo- 
ride of calcium and carbonate of soda. It is a fine white pow- 
der, insoluble in water, and free from grittiness, but possessing 
no superiority over prepared chalk. 

Creta Pr^iparata (Prepared Chalk), is made from chalk 
or whiting, by levigation and elutriation. It occurs in little 
white conical loaves, which are tasteless, odorless, insoluble in 
water, but more soluble in carbonic acid water. It consists of 
one eq. of carbonic acid and one of lime (CaO,C0 2 ). Its effects 
are those of an absorbent, antacid, and desiccant astringent. 
It is used in dyspepsia and gout, attended with an excess of 
acid in the system ; also in diarrhoea ; and, as it forms soluble 
salts of lime with the acids of the stomach, its employment has 
been suggested in rachitis. Dose, gr. x-xxx, in powder, or 
suspended in water with gum and sugar. Mistura Cretan (Chalk 
Mixture), consists of chalk (half a troyounce), rubbed up with 
sugar and gum arabic (each 5ij)> and water and cinnamon-water 
(each f §iv) ; dose, f §ss, repeated. Laudanum and tincture 
of kino or of catechu are often added to this mixture, in the 









RUBEFACIENTS. 317 

m 

treatment of diarrhoea. Troches of chalk are made by mixing 
4 troyounces of prepared chalk, a troyounce of gum arabic, 60 
grains of nutmeg, and 6 troyounces of sugar, and forming with 
water a mass, to be divided into troches, each weighing 10 
grains. 

Testa Pmparata (Prepared Oyster-shell), differs from pre- 
pared chalk, in containing animal matter united with the car- 
bonate of lime, and is thought to be more acceptable to a deli- 
cate stomach. Dose, gr. x-xxx. 



CLASS IV.— TOPICAL MEDICINES. 
ORDER I. — IRRITANTS. 

Irritants are medicines which are employed to produce irri- 
tation or inflammation of the parts to which they are applied. 
They may be subdivided into Rubefacients, Epispastics, 
Suppurants, and Escharotics. Rubefacients are used merely 
to produce redness of the skin. Epispastics, or vesicants, 
cause the exhalation of a serous fluid under the cuticle. Sup- 
purants produce a crop of pustules. Escharotics have a chemi- 
cal action on the tissues with which they are placed in contact, 
and decompose or destroy them. 



RUBEFACIENTS. 

Rubefacients are employed to remove congestion and inflam- 
mation, to rouse the capillary system in cases of local torpor, 
to relieve pain and spasm, and as stimulants to the general 
system, in coma, syncope, asphyxia, &c. They are adapted to 
cases in which a sudden and powerful but transient action is 
called for ; but they may also be employed where a slight and 
long-continued action is desired. In removing congestion and 
inflammation, rubefacients act by revulsion. They are chiefly 
useful in the forming stages or in light grades of inflammation. 
They are very serviceable local anodynes, when applied to 



318 MATERIA MEDICA. 

painful parts — acting by a substitutive influence. As general 
stimulants, their efficacy in rousing the system depends partly 
on their action on the capillary circulation, and partly on the 
pain which they produce. They are most valuable in the coma 
or asphyxia resulting from poisons, drowning, &c, and are 
inferior to blisters in the cerebral oppression, which occurs in 
fevers, inflammations of the brain, &c. 

Rubefacients are usually applied till pain and redness super- 
vene. If kept too long on the skin, many of them will produce 
vesication and even gangrene ; and, in cases of coma, particular 
caution is required, as the patient may not feel them till dan- 
gerous inflammation has occurred. 



SIN A PIS — MUSTARD. 

Mustard-seeds are obtained from two varieties of Sinapis, — 
S. nigra, or Black Mustard, and S. alba, or White Mustard 
{Nat Ord. Brassicaceae), small annual European plants, culti- 
vated in our gardens. S. nigra has become naturalized in some 
parts of the United States. Black mustard-seeds are small, 
globular, of a deep-brown color externally, and internally yel- 
low. They are inodorous, except in powder ; and, when rubbed 
with water, exhale a very strong, pungent smell. Their taste 
is bitterish, hot, and pungent. Wliite mustard-seeds are larger, 
yellowish externally, and of a less pungent taste, owing to the 
presence of a mucilaginous substance in their skin. The pSwder 
of both varieties (commonly called flour of mustard), is yellow, 
and is often adulterated with colored wheaten flour. Both vari- 
eties yield their virtues wholly to water, and very slightly to 
alcohol. 

Chemical Constituents. — Mustard-seeds yield, upon pressure, 
a fixed oil, which contains a peculiar acid, termed erucic. 
From the black seeds a very pungent volatile oil, containing 
sulphur, is afterwards obtained by distillation : it does not pre- 
exist in the seeds, but is the result of the action of water upon a 
peculiar principle called sinapisin. It is colorless or pale yel- 



MUSTARD. 319 

low, rather heavier than water, of a very pungent odor, and an 
acrid, burning taste, and is the principle to which the black 
seeds owe their activity. From the white seeds no volatile oil is 
obtained; but, when treated with water, they yield an acrid 
fixed principle, which is analogous in properties to the volatile 
oil of the black seeds. It is the result of the reaction of tvater 
upon sidpho-sinapisin, a peculiar ingredient of the white seeds. 
The development of the volatile oil in the black seeds, and of 
the acrid fixed principle in the white seeds, is supposed to de- 
pend upon the presence of an albuminous constituent, called 
myrosyne, which acts the part of a ferment in determining a re- 
action between water and the peculiar principles of the seeds. 
Myrosyne is rendered inert by heat, alcohol and the acids; and 
water of the ordinary temperature is therefore the proper men- 
struum of mustard. 

Effects and Uses. — Mustard is an acrid stimulant. In small 
quantities it is stomachic; in larger doses, it proves emetic; 
and, in excessive doses, it will produce gastro-enteric inflamma- 
tion. When applied to the skin, it is a rapid and powerful local 
excitant, speedily producing redness and pain, and, if long con- 
tinued, it will develop vesication, ulceration, and even sphacelus. 
Mustard-seeds, swallowed whole, have been used as a laxative 
in dyspepsia, in the dose of a tablespoonful once or twice a day, 
mixed with molasses; the white seeds are preferred. When 
mustard is employed internally, however, it is chiefly as an 
emetic, in cases of torpor of the stomach, particularly after 
narcotic poisoning ; and, by its stimulant action, mustard often 
rouses the gastric susceptibility when other emetics fail. Dose, 
as an emetic, from a large teaspoonful to a tablespoonful of the 
bruised seeds or powder. Its use in smaller quantity, as a con- 
diment and stimulant of the digestive organs, is well known. 
In the form oj whey (half a troyounce boiled in milk Oj), it is 
given as a diuretic in dropsy. The most general use of mustard 
is, however, as a cutaneous stimulant, in the form of cataplasm 
(termed a sinapism). This is made by mixing flour of mustard 
with a sufficient quantity of tepid water to give it proper con- 
sistence ; and it may be diluted with wheat or rye flour, if a 



320 MATERIA MEDICA. 

weaker effect is desired. Sinapisms are used, when a speedy 
and powerful rubefacient effect is required : they should be kept 
on till pain and redness are produced, usually from a quarter 
of an hour to an hour, and, in cases of insensibility, their effects 
should be carefully watched. They are applied spread on linen, 
and covered with gauze, to prevent adhesion to the skin. 

CAPSICUM. 

Capsicum has been previously noticed as an aromatic stimu- 
lant (p. 171). It is a powerful rubefacient, useful in rheuma- 
tism, low fevers, &c, and is applied in the form of cataplasm, 
or the tincture or oleoresin may be used. 



OLEUM TEREBINTHIN^J — OIL OF TURPENTINE. 

The oil of turpentine (see pp. 175, 261), is a speedy and 
efficacious- rubefacient, and sometimes produces a vesicular 
eruption. It is employed in low forms of disease, attended with 
coldness of the surface ; as a counter-irritant in inflammation ; 
and as a stimulating liniment in rheumatic and paralytic cases. 
It is often diluted with olive oil. 



LINIMENTUM AMMONIA — LINIMENT OE AMMONIA. 

This preparation, called also volatile liniment, consists of one 
fluidounce of water of ammonia (see p. 168), and two troyounces 
of olive oil. It is an excellent application, as a counter-irritant, 
in affections of the throat and chest, &c. 



PIX BURGUNDICA — BURGUNDY PI*CH. 

This is the prepared concrete juice of Abies excelsa or 
Norway Spruce (Nat. Ord. Pinacese), a lofty evergreen tree of 
Europe and Northern Asia. Abies picea, or the European 
Silver Fir, is said to be also a source of the drug. It is ob- 



BURGUNDY PITCH. 321 

tained by stripping off the bark, and detaching the flakes of 
resinous matter which form upon the surface of the wound ; 
they are afterwards melted in boiling water and strained. 
Burgundy pitch is principally collected in France, and derives 
its name from Burgundy, in that kingdom. After it is im- 
ported into the United States, it is generally remelted and 
strained, to free it from impurities ; and, as found in the shops, 
it is a hard, brittle, opaque substance, of a yellowish or brown- 
ish-yellow color, and a weak terebinthinate taste and smell; 
when applied to the body, it softens and becomes adhesive. It 
contains two resins, and a much smaller proportion of volatile 
oil than turpentine. 

A spurious Burgundy pitch is made by melting together 
pitch, resin, and turpentine, and agitating the mixture with 
water. 

Effects and Uses. — This is a gentle rubefacient, producing a 
slight degree of inflammation and serous effusion, without sepa- 
rating the cuticle. It occasionally produces a papillary or 
vesicular eruption ; and, sometimes, though rarely, occasions 
painful vesication and even ulceration. It is applied, in the 
form of plaster, to the chest in chronic pulmonary disorders, 
to the loins in lumbago, to the joints in chronic articular 
affections, and for the relief of local rheumatic pains in other 
parts. 

Emplastrum Picis Burgundicce, {Burgundy Pitch Plaster), 
consists of twelve parts of Burgundy pitch, melted with one 
part of yellow wax, which is used to give consistence to the 
pitch. Umplastrum Picis cum Cantharide {Plaster of Pitch 
with Cantharides), consists of twelve parts of Burgundy pitch, 
melted with one part of cerate of cantharides ; this is commonly 
called the warming plaster, and is a more active rubefacient 
than Burgundy pitch, though it does not usually blister. The 
Plaster of Antimony, Plaster of Iron, Compound G-albanum 
Plaster, and Opium Plaster, all contain Burgundy pitch. 



21 



322 MATERIA MEDICA. 



PIX CANADENSIS — CANADA PITCH. 

This is the prepared concrete juice of Abies Canadensis, 
or Hemlock Spruce (Nat. Ord. Pinacese), a very lofty ever- 
green tree of Canada and the northern parts of the United 
States. The pitch, (sometimes called hemlock gum), is a spon- 
taneous exudation on the old trees. The portions of bark upon 
which it hardens are stripped from the tree and boiled, and the 
melted pitch is skimmed from the surface of the water. It 
undergoes a further purification in the shops, by melting and 
straining, and is found in hard, brittle, opaque masses, of a 
dark yellowish-brown color, a weak, peculiar odor, and scarcely 
any taste. It is more readily softened by heat than Burgundy 
pitch, and is therefore sometimes a less convenient application. 
Its constituents are resin, and a minute portion of volatile 
oil. Its effects and uses are the same as those of Burgundy 
pitch. 

JEmplastrum Picis Canadensis (Plaster of Canada Pitch), 
sometimes called Hemlock Pitch Plaster, consists of twelve 
parts of Canada pitch, melted with one part of yellow wax. 

Many other acrid substances are occasionally employed as 
rubefacients. Ginger (see p. 176), Black Pepper (see p. 
1T2), and Garlic (see p. 259), are particularly deserving of 
mention. 



EPISPASTICS. 

Epispastics, called also vesicants and blisters, are medicines 
which, when applied to the skin, produce inflammation, 
accompanied by effusion of serum beneath the cuticle. Many 
of the rubefacients will blister, if kept on the skin a sufficient 
length of time ; and, on the other hand, the action of vesicants 
may be made not to extend beyond rubefaction. The inflam- 
mation of the skin, caused by vesicants, is erysipelatous in its 
character, and may result in suppuration and even sloughing 
or gangrene. In inflammations of the dermoid tissues, as 






CAXTHARIDES. 323 

rubeola and scarlatina, in typhus under certain circumstances, 
and in extreme infancy, — vesicants may produce fatal conse- 
quences. 

This class of agents is employed: 1. As derivatives or 
revellents, for the relief of internal inflammations. By deter- 
mining the circulating fluid and the nervous energy to the seat 
of their action, vesicants exert a powerful influence in the cure 
of distant inflammations. They are objectionable in the early 
stages of acute inflammation, before febrile action has been 
subdued, as they may excite the vascular system, and thus 
increase the inflammation of the affected organ. As regards 
the proper situation for applying vesicants, different theoretical 
opinions have been advanced ; but experience has shown that 
for the relief of internal inflammation, they cannot be applied 
too near the affected organ. In affections of the head, blisters 
are preeminently useful. 2. To substitute a healthy therapeu- 
tic inflammatory action, which subsides spontaneously, for a 
morbid action existing in the part to which they are applied. 
In this way vesicants are used for the cure of various cutane- 
ous eruptions. 3. To relieve pain, which they do partly by a 
derivative, and partly by a substitutive influence. 4. To break 
up morbid associations, by the powerful impression which they 
make on the nervous system, as in the cure of intermittent 
fever, spasmodic diseases, &c. 5. To stimulate the absorbing 
or secreting vessels of parts contiguous to the seat of their 
application; in this way, they are useful in promoting the 
absorption of dropsical effusions, in the treatment of ununited 
fracture, &c. 6. As general stimulants, in typhoid conditions 
of the system, coma, syncope, kc. 7. As local stimulants, in 
threatened gangrene, paralysis, kc. 8. As evacuants, chiefly 
for the purpose of local depletion. 9. In retrocedent gout. 
and in retrocession of exanthematous eruptions. 1U. To 
prepare a surface for the endermic application of medicines. 

CAXTHARIS — CAXTHARIDES. 

Cantharis vesicatoria, the Spanish Fly, is an insect from 



324 MATERIA MEDICA. 

six to ten lines in length, by two or three in breadth, of a 
beautiful, shining, golden-green color. It is found most 
abundantly in Spain, Italy, and the south of France, but 
occurs in all the temperate parts of Europe, and in Western 
Asia. The Spanish flies swarm on certain trees and shrubs, 
and may be detected at a considerable distance by their strong, 
fetid odor, which resembles that of mice. They make their 
appearance in May and June, and are collected in these 
months by persons who beat or shake them from the trees on 
which they lodge, and receive them, as they fall, upon linen 
cloths spread underneath. They are plunged into hot vinegar 
and water, or exposed to the vapor of boiling vinegar, and are 
afterwards dried in the sun or by drying stoves. When per- 
fectly dry, they are packed in canisters, which are carefully 
closed so as to exclude atmospheric moisture. They are 
usually imported into this country from some Mediterranean 
port. A highly esteemed variety comes from South Russia, 
through St. Petersburg, which is distinguished by the larger 
size and copper color of the flies. 

In the dried state, Spanish flies retain their form, color, 
odor, &c. ; their taste is acrid, burning, and urinous ; their 
powder is of a grayish-brown color, interspersed with shining 
green particles. If exposed to moisture, they are soon de- 
composed, most speedily when powdered. As, moreover, the 
powder is liable to adulterations, they should always be pur- 
chased whole, and should be powdered as they are wanted for 
use. They are liable to be attacked by mites, which destroy 
the interior soft parts : the best mode of preserving them is to 
expose them, in bottles, to the heat of boiling water, which 
destroys the eggs of the insect. A little camphor or carbonate 
of ammonia, or a few drops of strong acetic acid or chloroform, 
added to the flies, are also recommended as preservatives. 

The most important constituents of cantharides are a volatile 
oil, upon which the odor depends, and a white, crystalline sub- 
stance, termed cantharidin. which is the vesicating principle. 
Cantharidin is soluble in ether, chloroform, the oils, acetic acid, 
and boiling alcohol, and insoluble in water and cold alcohol ; 



CANTHARIDES. 325 

but, notwithstanding this insolubility of cantharidin, watery 
and alcoholic solutions of cantharides possess the medicinal 
properties of the insect, — the cantharidin being rendered 
soluble by the combination in which it exists. Cantharidin 
(C 10 H 6 O 4 ), by the aid of heat, in the presence of water, may be 
made to combine with the alkalies, the cantharidin becoming 
converted into cantharidic acid (C 10 H 6 O 4 ,2HO). The canthari- 
date of potassa has been employed as a blistering agent. 

Physiological Effects. — Cantharides are an acrid stimulant. 
Taken internally, in small doses, they excite the secretion of 
the kidneys, and sometimes produce more or less irritation of 
the genito-urinary passages, evinced by strangury, pain, and 
occasionally the discharge of bloody urine. In large doses, 
they produce violent gastro-enteric and genito-urinary inflam- 
mation ; and, in excessive doses, prove fatal, with convulsions, 
tetanus, delirium, and other cerebro-spinal symptoms. Twenty- 
four grains have occasioned death. In cases of poisoning, 
after the stomach has been emptied, opiates, demulcents, topi- 
cal depletion, &c, are to be resorted to. Applied to the skin, 
cantharides produce inflammation, which terminates in the free 
secretion of serum under the cuticle. Even when they are 
externally applied, their constitutional effects, as strangury, 
tenesmus, &c, are frequently manifested. 

Medicinal Uses. — The indications which cantharides are 
capable of fulfilling, when administered internally, as a diuretic, 
emmenagogue, &c, have been already noticed (see p. 254). 
Their chief use is as an external application, to produce blisters; 
but they are sometimes also employed externally, as rubefacients, 
for the purpose of local or general stimulation in low forms of 
disease. Cantharides are preferred to all other substances as 
epispastics, and they are used for all the medicinal purposes, 
that are within the range of this class of medicines. 

The following are the forms under which Spanish flies are 
used externally: 

Ceratum Cantharidis {Cerate of Cantharides), commonly 
known as Blistering Cerate, is made by mixing powdered can- 
tharides (twelve parts) with melted wax and resin (each seven 



326 MATERIA MEDICA. 

parts), and lard (ten parts). This is the preparation usually 
employed to raise a blister. It can be applied without the aid 
of heat, and should be spread on soft leather or linen, and 
covered with gauze or unsized paper, to lessen the liability 
to strangury. From four to twelve hours is the period for 
which the cerate should be applied — on the scalp a longer ap- 
plication may be required. For an ordinary impression, and 
where the cutaneous sensibility is not impaired by disease, it 
need not be kept on more than four or five hours. In cases of 
children, less time is required for the application of the cerate, 
and great caution is necessary in applying it to infants. A 
poultice of bread and milk or flaxseed meal should be after- 
wards applied, which usually produces vesication, if the action 
of the blister has not extended beyond rubefaction. If it be 
desirable to heal the blistered surface immediately, cotton wad- 
ding or simple cerate may be placed over it, after the serum 
has been allowed to escape. To maintain the discharge, the 
cuticle should be removed, and basilicon ointment applied ; if 
the surface require further irritation, the ointments of savine, 
mezereon, or cantharides may be used. The open or perpetual ' 
blister is, however, not required, for ordinary antiphlogistic 
purposes. In case of excessive pain, a poultice of bread-crumb 
and lead water, with gr. \ of sulphate of morphia mixed in it, 
or a starch poultice, or lime liniment is a soothing application. 
Goulard's cerate is an excellent application to heal obstinate 
ulcers from blisters. For the relief of strangury, diluents and 
diuretics are proper, as flaxseed tea, with sweet spirit of nitre, 
decoction of uva ursi, &c. Ceratum Extracti Cuntharidis ( Ce- 
rate of Extract of Cantharides), differs chiefly from the com- 
mon cerate in being made with an alcoholic extract of the flies 
instead of the flies themselves ; it is a new preparation, and is 
said to be more active than the old. To prepare it, 5 troy- 
ounces of cantharides are to be percolated to exhaustion with 
stronger alcohol, evaporated to the consistence of a soft extract, 
and mixed with 3 troyounces of resin, 6 troyounces of yellow 
wax, and 7 troyounces of lard (melted together). Ethereal, 
alcoholic, hydro-alcoholic, and watery extracts of Spanish flies 



POTATO FLIES. 327 

have been suggested as substitutes for the blistering cerate, and, 
mixed with wax and spread on thin cloth or paper, are termed 
vesicating taffetas. Unguentum Cantharidis (Ointment of Can- 
tharides), made by boiling a troyounce of cantharides (digested 
in six fluidounces of olive oil) with a troyounce of yellow wax, 
is employed as a stimulating dressing to blistered surfaces, or to 
produce vesication on delicate skins ; it is no longer officinal, but 
it is a useful preparation. Linimentum Cantharidis (Liniment 
of Cantharides), consists of a troyounce of cantharides dissolved 
in eight fluidounces of oil of turpentine ; it is a prompt stimu- 
lating liniment in low fevers, and may be applied to the skin to 
prepare it for the action of the blistering cerate. Collodium 
cum Cantharide (Collodion with Cantharides), is made by dis- 
solving gun-cotton in a mixture of alcohol and ether, which 
has been used to obtain the active properties of cantharides by 
percolation ; 8 troyounces of cantharides are percolated with 
stronger ether until 15 fluidounces have passed, the percolation 
is continued until half a pint more of liquid is obtained, which 
is reduced to a fluidounce and mixed with the reserved liquid, 
in which 8 troyounces of cotton (prepared by the process for 
collodion) are dissolved with agitation. It is a colorless, trans- 
parent liquid, which, to prevent its evaporation, should be kept 
in well-stoppered bottles. It furnishes a very convenient mode 
of blistering a small or irregular surface, and is applied by 
means of a camel's-hair brush, in successive layers, which should 
be covered with a piece of oiled silk. 



CAXTHAKIS YITTATA — POTATO FLIES. 

Several species of Cantharis are found in the United States, 
and are good substitutes for C. vesicatoria. C. vittata, or the 
Potato Fly, is most used. It resembles the Spanish fly in 
shape, but is rather smaller, being about six lines in length, 
and inhabits chiefly the potato plant. It contains eantha- 
ridin. 



328 MATERIA MEDICA. 



AQUA AMMONIA — WATER OF AMMONIA. 

"Water of Ammonia (see p. 168) may be used for the purpose 
of speedy vesication. The aqua ammonia? fortior (see p. 
167), five parts, mixed with spirit of camphor, two parts, and 
spirit of rosemary, one part, has been used as a prompt vesicant, 
under the name of Granville s lotion. A piece of flannel, satu- 
rated with the liniment, is applied to the skin, which it will 
generally blister in from three to ten minutes. 



SUPPURANTS. 
OLEUM TIGLII — CROTON OIL. 

Croton oil (see p. 236J, when rubbed on the skin, produces 
rubefaction, accompanied by a pustular eruption. It is an 
excellent application to the throat and chest, in subacute or 
chronic laryngeal and bronchial affections, and to rheumatic 
joints. It may be applied undiluted, or mixed with one, two, 
or three parts of olive oil or oil of turpentine, according to the 
susceptibility of the skin. 

• 

UNGUENTUM ANTIMONII — ANTIMONIAL OINTMENT". 

This ointment consists of one part of tartrate of antimony 
and potassa mixed with four parts of lard. The peculiar erup- 
tive effects of tartar emetic have been already noticed (p. 188). 
It may be used in the form of ointment or solution, in the same 
cases as croton oil, but it is a more painful and permanent 
application. 

ESCHAROTICS. 

Escharotics (from ea^apa, an eschar), called also cauterants, 
are medicines which destroy the structure and vitality of the 
parts to which they are applied. The eschar, which their ap- 



POTASSA. 329 

plication produces, is followed by inflammation and suppuration 
in the surrounding tissues, by which the slough is separated 
from the living parts. 

They are employed : 1. To effect the destruction of morbid 
growths, warts, condylomata, polypi, fungous granulations, &c. 
2. To decompose the virus of rabid and venomous animals, and 
of chancres. 3. For the cure of violent inflammation, by their 
substitutive action, as when they are applied to the mucous or 
cutaneous surfaces, in gonorrhoea! ophthalmia, erysipelas, pois- 
oned parts, carbuncle, &c. 4. To stimulate indolent sinuses, 
ulcers, &c, where their influence is also of a substitutive char- 
acter. 5. To open abscesses. 6. To form issues. 7. To re- 
move morbid heterologous growths, as lupus, cancer, &c. 

ARGENTI NITRAS FTJSA — FUSED NITRATE OF 
SILVER. 

Lunar Caustic (described at length, p. 135), is the most 
commonly employed of the caustics. It has the advantage of 
not liquefying when applied, and its action is therefore confined 
to the parts with which it is brought in contact. It is used to 
remove fungous granulations in wounds and ulcers, to destroy 
warts, to decompose and prevent the absorption of the syphilitic 
virus in chancres, to alter the action of indolent ulcers, sinuses, 
and fistulge, to subdue the inflammatory action of paronychia, 
erythema, &c, to arrest the progress of erysipelas and cancrum 
oris, to cut short variolous pustules, to cure skin diseases by a 
substitutive action, and in inflammations of mucous membranes. 
In dilutions of various strengths, it is resorted to in every 
variety of inflammation of the mucous membranes ; when a full 
impression is desired, a solution of gr. xx-xxx in distilled 
water f Sj, may be employed ; for ordinary purposes, gr. ij to 
water fgj. 

POTASSA. 

Caustic Potassa is prepared by the rapid evaporation of Solu- 



330 MATERIA MEDICA. 

tion of Potassa (see p. 310) with heat. While in the state of 
fusion, it is received into cylindrical iron moulds, and it occurs 
in the form of sticks, of a brownish, grayish, or bluish color, a 
fibrous fracture, the odor of slaking lime, and a caustic, urinous 
taste. It dissolves in alcohol, and in less than its weight of 
water, and attracts both moisture and carbonic acid rapidly 
from the air. It is more or less impure as found in the shops. 
By digestion in alcohol, it is freed from impurities insoluble in 
this menstruum (as the carbonates of potassa), and it may be 
afterwards obtained quite white and pure by evaporation ; it is 
then termed alcoholic potassa. The potassa of the shops is a 
hydrate, consisting of one eq. of water and one of potassa. 

Effects and Uses. — It is the most powerful known escharotic, 
and differs from lunar caustic, in extending its action to a con- 
siderable depth beneath the surface to which it is applied. It 
is used chiefly to open abscesses and form issues, and sometimes 
also to arrest the sloughing of carbuncles. When it is applied 
to the skin, this should be covered with linen spread with adhe- 
sive plaster, having a hole the size of the spot to be cauterized. 
A solution (5jss to f oij of water), is used as a rubefacient. 

Potassa cum Calce [Potassa with Lime), is prepared by 
rubbing up equal parts of potassa and lime. It is made into a 
paste with a little alcohol, and is sometimes termed Vienna 
paste; it has also been formed into sticks. The presence of 
lime renders this a milder, less deliquescent, and more manage- 
able caustic than potassa. 

ACIDUM CHROMICUM — CHROMIC ACID. 

Chromic Acid (Cr0 3 ) is obtained by the reaction of sulphuric 
acid upon a solution of bichromate of potassa. It occurs in the 
form of anhydrous acicular crystals, of a crimson-red color, and 
an acid, metallic taste ; they are deliquescent, and very soluble 
in water, with which they form an orange-yellow solution. 

Effects and Uses. — This is an escharotic of recent introduc- 
tion into the Materia Meclica. It is of unsurpassed power in 
this particular, decomposing the tissues by its rapid oxidizing 






CORROSIVE CHLORIDE OF MERCURY. 331 

action. Used in the form of paste, or solution more or Lese 
diluted, it is a most efficacious application to morbid growths and 
excrescences, as syphilitic condylomata, &c. It gives less pain 
than other caustics ; but it is to be used with caution, especially 
to delicate parts like the eye, as its action is deeply pene- 
trating. The solution may be made of the strength of from 100 
grains up to a troyounce to a fluidounce of water ; and is to be 
applied by means of a pencil or glass rod. 

ACIDUM ARSENIOSUM — ARSENIOUS ACID. 

This is a powerful escharotic (see p. 297), and is occasionally 
applied in lupus, onychia maligna, cancerous ulcers, and to 
change the action of indolent sinuses; but its use is attended 
with danger. It may be diluted with one or more parts of 
sulphur. 

ZINCI CHLORIDUM — CHLORIDE OF ZINC. 

This is also a powerful escharotic (see p. 134); and, in addi- 
tion to its corrosive properties, it appears to exercise a greater 
influence over the vital action of neighboring parts, than some 
of the other caustics. The separation of its eschar leaves very 
healthy and vigorous granulations, and it is one of the best ap- 
plications that can be made to intractable indolent ulcers and 
sinuses. It will cure lupus. 

LIQUOR HYDRARGYRI NI T R ATIS — S OL UTI N OF 
NITRATE OF MERCURY. 

This preparation (see p. 288), termed also the aeid nitrate of 
mercury, is a valuable caustic application to malignant ulcers, 
&c. 

HYDRARGYRI CHLORIDUM C R R S I V U M— C R R S I V E 
CHLORIDE OF MERCURY. 

Corrosive Sublimate is more frequently used as a stimulant 



332 MATERIA MEDICA. 

wash, than as a caustic. For its properties, uses, and modes of 
application, see p. 284. 



POTASS^) BICHROMAS — BICHROMATE OF POTASSA. 

This salt, already noticed under the head of alteratives (see 
p. 305), is a good caustic application, in saturated solution, or 
powder, to syphilitic and other vegetations. 



ACIDA MINERALIA — MINERAL ACIDS. 

The mineral acids (see p. 138), are powerful escharotics, but 
are inconvenient for many uses, on account of the extension of 
their action beyond the point of application. On the other 
hand, they can be made to reach the bottoms of sinuses and 
fistulse, which are inaccessible to the solid caustics. Nitric 
acid, for such purposes, has no equal in the list of escharotics ; 
it is also used to destroy warts. Properly diluted, the mineral 
acids are employed as injections, gargles, &c. ; and in the form 
of ointment in skin diseases. 

Sulphate of Copper (see p. 132), and Alum (see p. 
162), are mild escharotics, but are chiefly used to remove 
fungous granulations in ulcers. The actual cautery and 
moxa have been alluded to under the head of Heat (see 
p. 21). 

ORDER II. — DEMULCENTS. 

Demulcents, or Lenitives, are medicines which soften and 
relax the tissues, and, when applied to irritated or inflamed 
surfaces, diminish heat, tension, and pain. They consist 
chiefly of gum, or mucilage, or of a mixture of these with 
saccharine and farinaceous substances, and form with water 
viscid solutions. Their constitutional effects are principally 
nutritive, though perhaps to some extent they relieve irritation 
in distant organs, by modifying the acridity of the secretions. 



DEMULCENTS. 333 

Demulcent solutions are administered internally : 1. To sheathe 
and protect the gastro-enteric surface from the injurious eifects 
of irritating substances — particularly acrid poisons. 2. To 
relieve irritation and inflammation of the alimentary canal, as 
in gastritis, enteritis, diarrhoea, and dysentery; and for this 
purpose they may be administered either by the mouth or 
rectum. 3. In catarrhal affections, in which they are probably 
useful, in part by the transmission of their lubricating and 
soothing effects on the fauces and oesophagus by reflex action 
to the laryngeal and bronchial membranes, and in part by 
modifying the acridity of expectorated matters. 4. In affec- 
tions of the urinary passages, as ardor urinse, cystitis, &c, 
and, in these cases, they act chiefly by diminishing the acridity 
of the secretions. 5. As agreeable drinks, to quench thirst 
and promote the action of the secreting and exhaling organs, 
in febrile affections. Their effects, in these cases, are owing 
partly to the water which they contain, to which they are 
added merely for the sake of flavor, and partly also to the 
nutrient which they furnish. When administered with the 
object of increasing the proportion of the fluid parts of the 
blood, demulcents are termed diluents. 6. As light diet for 
the sick. 7. For pharmaceutical purposes, to suspend sub- 
stances insoluble in water, &c. 

Externally, mucilaginous solutions are extensively employed, 
to relieve the heat, swelling, and pain of inflammations, wounds, 
burns, &c. ; to hasten suppuration, where inflammation is too 
far advanced for resolution ; to cleanse foul and scabby ulcers ; 
to promote suppuration from granulating surfaces, &c, &c. 
Mucilaginous and amylaceous substances are applied to inflamed 
and ulcerated parts, mixed with water so as to form soft masses, 
termed cataplasms or poultices. These are useful vehicles of 
heat and moisture to the skin, and are used, also for the relief 
of internal inflammations, as when applied to the chest and 
abdomen in pleurisy, bronchitis, peritonitis, dysentery, &c. 
Applied externally, this class of medicines is termed emol- 
lients. 



334 MATERIA MEDICA. 



ACACIA — GUM ARABIC. 

Gum Arabic is the concrete juice of Acacia vera, Acacia 
Arabica, and other species of Acacia (Wat. Ord. Fabacese), 
thorny or prickly trees or shrubs of Africa and Arabia. The 
gum exudes, either through natural cracks in the bark, or 
through incisions made to facilitate its exudation, and hardens 
on exposure. The most abundant yield is in the hot and dry 
weather, and is obtained from the sickliest trees. Several com- 
mercial varieties are known, as Turkey, Barbary, Senegal, 
India, &c, of which the two most important are Turkey gum, 
and Senegal gum. 1. Turkey gum comes from the Levant or 
other parts of the Mediterranean, and is the kind usually found 
in the shops. It consists chiefly of small, irregular fragments, 
interspersed with larger pieces, of a whitish color, which is 
sometimes slightly tinged with yellow or reddish-yellow. It is 
lighter-colored, more brittle, more readily soluble, and purer 
than other varieties, and is generally characterized by innumer- 
able minute fissures pervading its substance. 2. Senegal gum 
comes from the western coast of Africa. It occurs in roundish 
or oval unbroken pieces, larger, less brittle, and breaking with 
a more conchoidal fracture than those of Turkey gum, some- 
times whitish, but generally yellowish, reddish, or brownish- 
red. 3. Barbary gum comes from Morocco ; it is derived, in 
part at least, from A. gummifera, and consists of two kinds, 
one resembling the Turkey, the other the Senegal gum. 4. 
India gum, though brought from India, is collected on the 
northeastern coast of Africa, and in the ports of the Red Sea. 
It is in pieces of varying size, color, and quality, and is often 
contaminated with Bassora gum, which is insoluble in water. 
Gum is also imported into England from the Cape of Good 
Hope, and from Australia. All the varieties are more or less 
transparent, hard, brittle, and pulverizable, and form a white 
powder. They are inodorous, with a feeble, slightly sweetish 
taste, and, when pure, dissolve wholly in the mouth. When 
kept in a dry place, they undergo no change by time. 






GUM ARABIC. 335 

Chemical Constituents. — Gum Arabic consists almost wholly 
of a peculiar proximate principle, usually termed gum, but lat- 
terly designated by chemists as arabin. It is soluble in hot 
or cold water, forming a viscid solution, called mucilage, and is 
insoluble in alcohol, ether, and the oils. Alcohol precipitates 
gum from its aqueous solution ; subacetate of lead (which is a 
delicate test), nitrate of lead, and solution of sesquichloride of 
iron also precipitate it from solution. Gums of inferior trans- 
parency and solubility contain bassorin, an inert principle, 
insoluble in water and alcohol. 

Effects and Uses. — Gum Arabic is extensively employed, 
internally, as a demulcent in gastro-enteric inflammation, 
diarrhoea, dysentery, cases of acrid poisoning, &c. ; as a lubri- 
cant to the fauces in catarrhal affections, and also as a vehicle for 
anodynes and expectorants in cough mixtures ; and as a dilu- 
ent in fevers and inflammatory cases. It is not now con- 
sidered to be digestible and can scarcely rank (as formerly 
supposed) with nutrients. It is usually administered in solu- 
tion (a troyounce to boiling water Oj, to be given when cool) ; 
in cases of irritation of the fauces, it may be taken in the 
mouth, and allowed slowly to dissolve. For pharmaceutical 
purposes, gum arabic is much used to suspend insoluble sub- 
stances in water, and in making pills and lozenges. Mucilago 
Acacias (Mucilage of Cum Arabic) — four troyounces to boiling 
water Oss), — is used in making pills, emulsions, &c. ; it be- 
comes sour by keeping. Syrupus Acacice (Syrup of Gum 
Arabic), — (two troyounces to water fSviij, with sugar fourteen 
troyounces), — is used for the same purposes. Mistura Amyg- 
dalae (Mixture of Almond, or Almond Emulsion), — is made 
by dissolving a mixture of half a troyounce of blanched sweet 
almonds, 30 grains of gum arabic, 120 grains of sugar, in half 
a pint of water; it is a pleasant demulcent and vehicle for 
other medicines. By dissolving equal parts of sugar and gum 
arabic in water and evaporating, an agreeable demulcent is 
obtained, known as gum pectoral, which is sold as an imitation 
of jujube paste. 



336 MATERIA MEDICA. 



TRAGACANTHA — T RAG AC ANT H. 

This is a concrete juice obtained from Astragalus verus 
and other species of Astragalus {Nat. Ord. Fabacese). They 
are small shrubs found in Persia, Asia Minor, and countries 
bordering on the Levant — with numerous branches, covered 
with imbricated scales and beset with spines. Tragacanth 
exudes spontaneously in the hot weather, and hardens as it 
exudes, in forms of various shapes. It occurs in irregular, 
tortuous pieces, of a whitish or yellowish- white or occasionally 
a slightly reddish color, somewhat translucent, resembling horn 
in appearance. It is hard and fragile, but very difficult of pul- 
verization, has no smell and very little taste. When heated 
with water, it swells and forms a paste, and, if agitated with 
an additional quantity, it forms a uniform mixture, from which 
it is, however, almost entirely deposited, upon standing a day 
or two. It contains two constituents, one soluble in water, 
resembling arabin, the other termed tragacanthin, which is 
probably identical with bassorin. 

Effects and Uses. — Tragacanth is seldom given internally, 
on account of its difficult solubility. It is useful in suspending 
heavy insoluble powders, and answers better than gum arabic 
to impart consistence to lozenges. Mueilago Tragacanthoe 
{Mucilage of Tragacanth), — (a troyounce to boiling water Oj), 
— is used in making pills and troches, and for the suspension 
of heavy insoluble metallic substances. 

LINUM — FLAXSEED. 

This is the seed of Linum usitatissimum, or Common Flax 
(Nat. Ord. Linacese), an annual plant, of the height of two 
feet, originally a native of Eastern countries, but naturalized 
in Europe, and cultivated in all parts of the world. The seed 
and oil are both officinal. The seeds are about a line in length, 
oval, smooth, and glossy, of a brown color externally, and 
yellowish- white within ; a variety of flax is cultivated in Ohio, 



SLIPPERY-ELM BARK. 



3?7 






the seeds of which are greenish-yellow. Flaxseeds arc inodo- 
rous, and have an oily, mucilaginous taste. They contain a 
fixed oil, a large proportion of mucilaginous matter, vegetable 
albumen, and various other ingredients ; the mucilaginous mut- 
ter, which is found chiefly in the husks of the seeds, consists, 
about one-half, of a principle soluble in cold water, resembling 
arabin, and, about one-third, of a principle insoluble in water. 
The oil (oleum lini or linseed oil), is obtained by expression from 
the interior part of the seeds ; it is laxative in the dose of 
fgi-ij, but it is chiefly used, externally,'as an ingredient of lini- 
mentum calcis (see p. 314). 

Effects and Uses. — The compound infusion of flaxseed (half 
a troyounce to boiling water Oj, with liquorice root 5ij), is 
an admirable demulcent, extensively employed internally, in 
catarrh, bowel-complaints, nephritic and calculous complaints, 
strangury, &c. ; and also (without the liquorice root), as an ex- 
ternal antiphlogistic application. Decoction is an improper 
mode of preparing a demulcent solution of flaxseed, as boiling 
extracts part of the oil ; but it answers very well when it is used 
as a laxative enema. Flaxseed meal (lini farina), mixed with 
hot water, forms a much-used emollient poultice. The cake, 
remaining after the expression of the oil, retains the mucilagi- 
nous and albuminous constituents of the seeds, and forms a food 
for cattle, under the name of oil-cake. This is used for making 
poultices, but it is inferior to the meal made from the seeds 
which have not been deprived of their oil. 



ULMUS FULVA — SLIPPERY-ELM BARK. 

This is the inner bark of Ulmus fulva, or Slippery Elm 
(Nat. Ord. Ulmaceae), a lofty indigenous tree, which is found 
throughout the United States, north of Carolina, and grows 
most abundantly west of the Allegheny Mountains. The inner 
bark is prepared for use by the removal of the epidermis ; it is 
found in the shops in long flat pieces, of a fibrous texture, 
tawny on the outer surface and reddish on the inner, of a pecu- 
liar but not unpleasant smell, and a very mucilaginous taste. 



338 MATERIA MEDICA. 

It affords a light, grayish, fawn-colored powder. A large 
quantity of mucilaginous matter is contained in it, which is 
readily yielded to water. Much of the bark lately brought into 
the market is inferior, containing but little mucilage ; it is less 
fibrous and more brittle than the genuine bark. 

Effects and Uses. — Slippery-elm bark is a valuable demul- 
cent, extensively and advantageously employed in dysentery, 
diarrhoea, genito-urinary diseases, catarrhs, &c. It is also 
highly nutritious. Externally, it is an excellent emollient ap- 
plication, in the form either of infusion, or of poultice made 
with the powder. It has been also recommended for the dilata- 
tion of strictures and fistulae. The infusion — mueilago ulmi 
[mucilage of slippery-elm bark), — (a troyounce to boiling water 
Oj), — may be used ad libitum. 

SASSAFRAS MEDULLA — SASSAFRAS PITH. 

Sassafras pith is the pith of the stems of Sassafras ofiicinale 
(see p. 244). It occurs in light, spongy, whitish, slender, 
cylindrical pieces, of a mucilaginous taste. It abounds in a 
gummy matter, which it yields readily to water, forming a 
limpid, viscid mucilage. This mucilage (5j to cold water Oj), 
is a pleasant demulcent drink in dyspeptic, nephritic, and ca- 
tarrhal affections, and is much used as a soothing application in 
ophthalmia. 

ALTH^A — MARSHM ALLOW. 

The roots of Althaea officinalis (Nat. Ord. Malvaceae), and 
other Malvaceae, herbaceous European plants, occasionally 
found too on the borders of salt marshes in our own country, 
are much used in Europe as demulcents. They are imported 
in pieces three or four inches in length, of nearly the thickness 
of the finger, light, easily broken, white externally, of a peculiar 
faint smell, and a mild, mucilaginous, sweetish taste. The chief 
^constituents of marshmallow are mucilage and starch, the former 
soluble in cold water, the latter requiring hot water. It con- 






LIQUORICE ROOT. 339 

tains also asparagin or nialamide, a principle found in aspara- 
gus roots and other plants. 

Uses. — Marslimalloiv decoction is employed as a demulcent 
in inflammatory and irritated conditions of the mucous mem- 
branes of the respiratory, digestive, and urinary organs, and 
poultices made of the bruised or powdered root are used exter- 
nally. 



SESAMI FOLIUM BENNE LEAF. 

This leaf is the product of Sesamum Indicum and Sesamum 
Orientale (Nat. Ord. Bignonise), annual plants, growing to the 
height of four or five feet, with ovate-lanceolate, lobed leaves, 
reddish-white axillary flowers, and an oblong capsule containing 
small, oval, yellowish seeds. They are natives of India, but are 
now raised in Asia, Egypt, Italy, and also in South Carolina, 
and in the neighborhood of Philadelphia. The seeds contain a 
fixed oil, and the leaves yield to cold water a large quantity 
of mucilage, resembling that of sassafras pith. This is a highly 
esteemed demulcent drink, used in cholera infantum and in- 
fantile bowel-complaints. The seeds are eaten as food by the 
negroes in Carolina, in broths, puddings, &c. The oil (oleum 
sesami), which is inodorous, of a bland, sweetish taste, and keeps 
well, may be used internally or externally as a substitute for 
olive oil. 



GLYCYRRHIZA — LIQUORICE ROOT. 

This is the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra {Nat. Ord. Fabacese), 
a small herbaceous, perennial plant, of the countries around 
the Mediterranean. It is imported from Sicily and Spain ; 
and a portion of the Sicilian root is said to be the product of 
G. echinata. As found in the shops, liquorice root is in long, 
wrinkled pieces, often worm-eaten, varying from a few lines to 
more than an inch in thickness, externally grayish-brown, in- 
ternally yellowish, without smell, and of a sweet, mucilaginous, 
sometimes slightly acrid taste. The best pieces are of the 



340 MATERIA MEDICA. 

brightest yellow internally. The powder is grayish-yellow, or, 
if it is powdered with the epidermis removed, pale sulphur- 
yellow. The constituents of liquorice root are, a peculiar, 
transparent yellow, sweetish substance, termed glycyrrhizin 
(which is scarcely soluble in cold water, but soluble in boiling 
water and alcohol, and is insusceptible of the vinous fermenta- 
tion), starch, albumen, an acrid resin, &c. 

Effects and Uses. — A decoction of liquorice root (a troy- 
ounce boiled for a few minutes in water Oj), is a useful demul- 
cent in dysenteric, catarrhal, and nephritic affections ; it is also 
added to decoctions of acrid substances, to cover their taste 
and acridity. It should be made of the root, deprived of its 
cortical part, which is acrid and without demulcent virtues; by 
long boiling, the acrid resin is extracted. The powder is used 
in making pills (see p. 28). ■ 

Extractum Glycyrrhiz^: (Liquorice), is made by the evapo- 
ration of a decoction of the half-dried root. It comes to this 
country chiefly from Leghorn and Messina, and in part, also, 
from Spain ; good liquorice is prepared, too, in New York and 
in England. Crude liquorice, when good, occurs in black, flat- 
tened, cylindrical rolls, about an inch in diameter, which are 
dry, brittle, with a shining fracture, of a very sweet, peculiar, 
slightly acrid taste, and are quite soluble in water. It is, how- 
ever, much sophisticated, and for internal use is, generally, 
refined, by dissolving the impure extract in water, without 
ebullition, straining the solution, and evaporating; sugar is 
often mixed with it, and sometimes mucilage or glue. Refined 
liquorice is in small cylindrical pieces, not thicker than a pipe- 
stem. Liquorice is a pleasant demulcent, much used as an 
addition to cough mixtures and lozenges, and to acrid infusions 
and decoctions. Mistura Grlycyrrhizce Composita, commonly 
called Brown Mixture, consists of liquorice, gum arabic, sugar, 
each half a troyounce ; paregoric, f gij ; antimonial wine, f 5j ; 
sweet spirit of nitre, f §ss ; water, f gxij ; dose, f 5ss. Liquorice 
enters into the composition of several troches already noticed. 



IRISH MOSS. 341 



CETRARIA — ICELAND MOSS. 

Cetraria Islandica, or Iceland Moss (Nat Orel. Lichenacese), 
is a foliaceous, erect lichen, from two to four inches high, found 
in the northern latitudes and mountainous districts of the new 
and old continents. It is principally obtained from Norway 
and Iceland; and, as found in the shops, consists of irregularly 
lobed and channeled coriaceous leaves, fringed at their edges 
with rigid hairs, of a brownish or grayish-white color, darker 
on the upper surface, and sometimes marked with blood-red 
spots. It is almost odorless, and has a bitter, mucilaginous 
taste ; its powder is whitish-gray. It gives up its virtues to 
boiling water, and consists chiefly of a kind of amylaceous 
matter (which is colored blue by iodine, and is termed lichenm), 
and a bitter principle, termed cetrarin, which yields cetraric 
acid; it contains, besides, other principles. 

Effects and Uses. — Iceland moss is a demulcent tonic, and 
is also highly nutritious. It is adapted to cases requiring a 
light aliment combined with a mild and acceptable tonic ; and, 
from its demulcent properties, has a soothing influence in inflam- 
mations of the various mucous membranes. It is chiefly used 
in chronic affections of the pulmonary and digestive organs, in 
the form of decoction (half a troyounce boiled in water enough 
to make a pint), which may be taken ad libitum. By macera- 
tion in water or a weak alkaline solution, Iceland moss may be 
deprived of its bitter principle ; and it is then used as a mild 
nutritive demulcent. 

CH0NDRTJS — IRISH MOSS. 

Chondrus crispus, Carrageen or Irish Moss (Nat Ord. Al- 
gacese), is a marine alga, found chiefly on the west coa^t of 
Ireland, where it is prepared for use by washing, bleaching, 
and drying. As found in the shops, it consists of fronds, from 
two to three or four inches long, mostly yellowish or dirty- 
white, but intermixed with purplish-red portions, nearly inodor- 



342 MATERIA MEDICA. 

ous, and of a mucilaginous taste. It swells up in warm water, 
and is almost entirely dissolved when boiled. Its chief consti- 
tuent is a peculiar mucilaginous prinbiple, for which the term 
carrageenin has been proposed ; and it contains also some mucus, 
resins, &c. 

Effects and Uses. — It is a very agreeable nutritive demul- 
cent, useful in bowel-complaints and pectoral affections. It 
may be given in the form of decoction (half a troyounce to 
water, Ojss, boiled to Oj), flavored with lemon-juice and sugar; 
or it may be made with milk or cream into blanc-mange, which 
forms an excellent light diet for the sick. 



MAR ANT A — ARROW-ROOT. 

Arrow-root is a fecula, obtained from the root of Maranta 
arundinacea (Nat. Ord. Marantacese), a perennial herbaceous 
plant, of the height of two or three feet, originally found in 
the West Indies, and now cultivated in both the West and East 
Indies, Florida, Ceylon, and Sierra Leone. Other plants also 
furnish some of the arrow-root of commerce. The root of M. 
arundinacea is a white, fleshy, scaly, articulated, cylindrical 
tuber, from six inches to a foot or more in length, furnished 
with long fibres, and giving origin to several tuberous stoles, 
similar to itself. It consists principally of fecula or starch, 
which is extracted from the roots, when they are about a 
year old : they are washed and beaten into a pulp, which is 
stirred in water, and the fibrous part wrung out by the hands ; 
the milky liquor is strained and suffered to settle, and the sub- 
siding mass is xlried in the sun. It occurs in the form of a 
light, opaque, white powder, or small pulverulent masses, 
without odor or taste ; and is brought to our market chiefly 
from the West Indies, and to some amount, also, from Georgia 
and Florida. The preferred kind is that which comes from Ber- 
muda. 

Arrow-root is a pure starch, insoluble in cold water. Its 
peculiar characteristic is the structure and appearance of its 






TAPIOCA. 343 

granules, ivlien viewed under a microscope; and this affords 
the best means of distinguishing it from other feculte, which 
are mixed with or sold for it. The granules of the genuine 
arrow-root are ovate-oblong, irregularly convex, with fine 
rings, a hilum or central cavity, and often short processess or 
spines. 

Effects and Uses. — Arrow-root is a valuable nutritive 
demulcent, forming a very pleasant light diet in bowel-com- 
plaints and pulmonary and urinary affections. It is also much 
used as an article of food for infants. It is prepared by 
mixing a tablespoonful with a little cold water until it 
is reduced to a paste, and then gradually adding a pint 
of boiling water or milk, or dye proportions of each, 
stirring the mixture at the same time. Lemon-juice and 
sugar, or wine and spices, may be added, according to the indi- 
cation. It is generally made with milk, when used as a diet 
for infants. 



CANNA. 

Canna starch (known also by the French name of tous les 
mois), is a fecula prepared from the rhizoma of an undeter- 
mined species of canna, generally believed, however, to be C. 
edulis. It comes from the West Indies and Central America, 
and occurs in the form of a light, very white powder, of a 
shining appearance. Its granules are longer than those of 
any other variety of starch, and are ovate or oblong, with 
numerous regular, unequally distant rings. It is used and 
prepared like arrow-root. 



TAPIOCA. 

This is the fecula of the root of Janipha Manihot (Nat. 
Ord. Euphorbiacese), a South American shrub, some six or 
eight feet in height, cultivated also in the West Indies, where 
it is termed the cassava plant. The root is a very Large, 
white, fleshy tuber, and is found under two varieties, the sweet 



344 MATERIA MEDICA. 

and bitter ; the latter contains an acrid, poisonous juice, which 
is, however, volatile, and dissipated by heat. Tapioca is 
obtained from the expressed juice of both varieties, from 
which it is deposited as a starchy powder ; it is afterwards 
dried by heat, which causes the starch-grains to swell and 
agglomerate into small masses or lumps. It occurs in the form 
of irregular, hard, white, rough grains, of little taste, and 
partially soluble in cold water. In boiling water it swells up, 
and forms a transparent jelly-like mass, which constitutes an 
admirable demulcent article of diet, applicable to the same 
cases as arrow-root. 



SAGO. 

Sago is the prepared fecula of the pith of Sagus Rumphii, 
or the Sago Palm, and of other species of Sagus (Nat. Ord. 
Palmacese), small trees of the Moluccas and other East India 
Islands. The immature stems contain a great mass of spongy 
medullary matter, which is extracted in the state of a coarse 
powder ; this is mingled with water, and the mixture, upon 
standing, deposits the insoluble farina, which, when dried, 
constitutes sago. The sago of commerce is prepared by 
forming the meal into a paste with water, and rubbing it into 
grains. It is refined at Malacca and Singapore, so as to give 
the grains a fine pearly lustre, and in this state is called pearl 
sago. Pearl Sago is the preferred variety, and is that which is 
now in general use. It is in small grains, about the size of a 
pin's head, hard, whitish, of a light-brown color, inodorous, 
and nearly tasteless. Common Sago is in larger, duller, 
browner grains, often mixed with a dirty-looking powder. 

Sago is, chemically, a starch. Common Sago is insoluble in 
cold water ; but pearl sago is partially dissolved by it, owing to 
the heat which it has undergone. The only use of sago is as a 
bland, unirritating article of diet. It should be boiled some 
time in water (or milk, if preferred), and carefully stirred, to 
insure the thorough solution of the grains ; the solution, after 



OATMEAL. 345 

being strained, may be flavored with sugar, lemon-juice, wine, 
or spices, according to the requirements of the case. 



HORDEUM — BARLEY. 

Barley, as prepared for medicinal use, consists of the decorti- 
cated seed of Hordeum distichon, and other species of Hor- 
deum (Nat. Orel. Graminacese) ; well-known grains, supposed 
to be derived from Tartary, and now in cultivation in most 
parts of the world. The seeds are oval, oblong, marked with 
a longitudinal furrow, of a yellowish color externally, white 
within, a faint odor, and a mild, sweetish taste. They contain 
starch, gluten, gum, sugar, and a peculiar principle termed 
hordein, analogous to liffnin. 

When made to germinate by warmth and moisture, and after- 
wards baked to deprive them of vitality, barley-seeds are termed 
malt; this process increases the nutritious properties of the 
grain, by increasing the proportions of sugar, starch, and gum, 
at the expense of the hordein. Deprived of its husk, the grain 
is termed hulled barley, and hulled barley, when ground, is 
barley meal. Pearl Barley is the grain with all the invest- 
ments removed, and afterwards rounded and polished in a mill ; 
it is thus freed from its fibrous matter, and is the only fit form 
for medicinal use. It consists of small, white, oval grains, with 
a dark longitudinal furrow on one side, and yields its virtues 
to boiling water. In the form of decoction, and suitably 
flavored, it makes an exceedingly bland, demulcent, nutritive 
drink, in fevers and inflammatory cases ; (two troyounces, pre- 
viously washed with cold water, are mixed with water Oss, and 
boiled for a short time ; this water should be thrown away, and 
Oiv boiling hot are poured upon the barley, and boiled to Oij). 
A decoction of malt is more nutritious ; mixed with hops, it is 
termed wort. 

AVENJE FARINA (Oatmeal)— the meal, prepared from the 
seeds of Avena Sativa (Nat. Orel. Graminaceae),— furnisl 
pleasant diet for the sick, more nutritious than the pure 



346 MATERIA MEDICA. 

starches, as it contains 3 per cent, of albumen with 72.8 per 
cent, of starch. It has a slight laxative influence on the bowels, 
and is often administered to assist the action of cathartics. 
Oatmeal gruel is prepared by boiling from one to two troy- 
ounces of the meal in three pints of water to a quart, straining 
the decoction, allowing it to stand till it cools, and then pour- 
ing off the clear liquor from the sediment. It may be flavored 
with sugar, and lemon-juice or raisins. 

Oryza [Rice), — the fruit of Oryza Sativa (Nat. Ord. Gra- 
minaceae), containing about 85 per cent, of starch, and nearly 
4 per cent, of gluten, is an excellent demulcent diet for the 
sick, in affections of the bowels. Rice-water, made by boiling 
a troyounce in a pint of water for an hour, may be used as 
a drink. 

Salep — the prepared bules of Orchis mascula (Nat. Ord. 
Orchidacese), consists of smalt, oval, hard, heavy, semi-trans- 
parent masses, of a yellowish color, a feeble odor, and a mild 
mucilaginous taste. It contains, like tragacanth, two gums 
(one insoluble, the other soluble), and also starch. It is de- 
mulcent and highly nutritive, and is used in the same way as 
tapioca, sago, &c. The Castillon powders, consisting of salep, 
sago, and tragacanth (in powder), each a drachm, prepared 
oyster-shell a scruple, and cochineal enough to give color to 
the mixture, constitute an excellent article of diet in bowel 
complaints. A drachm may be taken boiled in a pint of milk. 

Amylum (Starch), a proximate principle, pervading the vege- 
table kingdom, is used in solution as a demulcent to irritated 
surfaces, as a vehicle for anodyne enemata, as an antidote for 
iodine, and, in powder, as a desiccant. 

Gelatina (G-elatin), a solid, transparent, corneous substance, 
obtained from the bones and other tissues of animals, (soluble 
in boiling water, and forming, on cooling, a transparent jelly), 
may be noticed with demulcents. When dried, it is found in 









WHITE WAX. ;147 

the form of whitish, or yellowish, semi-transparent, hard and 
tough, tasteless, inodorous strips. It is used to make soups 
and jellies for the sick, but it is not of easy digestion, and it 
does not nourish the nitrogenous tissues. In solution, it has 
been used as an enema in dysentery and hemorrhoids. And 
in pharmacy, it is employed to make capsules for the adminis- 
tration of disagreeable liquid medicines, and as a coating for 
pills. 

Ichthyocolla (Isinglass), prepared from the swimming blad- 
der of Acipenser huso (the sturgeon), and of other species of fish, 
is the purest form of gelatin. Court-plaster is made by coating 
oiled silk with a solution of isinglass. 

For external use, the animal fats are employed as emollients. 

Adeps (Lard), is the prepared fat of sus scrofa (the hog). 
It is used in pharmacy as an addition to poultices, and as an in- 
unction in the exanthemata, particularly scarlatina. Cerate of 
lard, ceratum adipis (formerly termed simple cerate), is made 
by melting together two parts of lard and one part of white 
wax. TJnguentum adipis {ointment of lard), is made by melting 
together four parts of lard and one part of white wax. Lard 
oil (the olein of lard), is a good vehicle for anodyne enemata. 

Sevum (Suet), is the prepared fat of ovis aries (the sheep). 

Cetaceum (Spermaceti), is a peculiar concrete substance, 
obtained from Physeter macrocephalus (the spermaceti whale). 
Spermaceti cerate (ceratum cetacei), is made by melting together 
one part of spermaceti and three parts of white wax, and then 
adding five parts of olive oil. 

Cera Flava (Yellow Wax), is a peculiar concrete sub- 
stance, prepared by Apis mellifica (the honey bee). 

Cera Alba (White Wax), is yellow wax bleached. It is 
chiefly used in making cerates, ointments, and plasters. 



348 MATERIA MEDICA. 



OLEUM THEOBROM^ — OIL OF THEOBROMA. 

This oil, commonly known as butter of cacao, is the concrete 
oil of the fruit of Theobroma Cacao (Nat. Orel. Sterculiacese), a 
handsome tree, from twelve to twenty feet in height, growing in 
Mexico, the West Indies, Central America, and South America. 
The fruit is an ovate-oblong capsule or berry, half a foot in 
length, with a thick, coriaceous, ligneous rind, inclosing a 
whitish pulp, in which numerous ovate seeds are imbedded, 
about the size of an almond. Separated from the matter in 
which they are enveloped, these constitute the chocolate-nuts of 
commerce (see p. 93). They contain fixed oil (cacao butter), 
theobromia, and other matters. Theobromia is a nitrogenous 
alkaloid, analogous to caffeina. Cacao butter is obtained by ex- 
pression, decoction, or the action of a solvent. It occurs in 
whitish or yellowish oblong cakes, of the consistence of tallow, 
and of an agreeable odor and taste. It contains a large pro- 
portion of stearin, also palmitin and olein. It is used in 
pharmacy for coating pills, and also largely in preparing sup- 
positories, for which it is well adapted from its consistence and 
blandness. 



GLYCERINA — GLYCERIN. 

This is a substance which exists in oils in combination with 
the fatty acids (stearic, margaric, oleic, &c), and is liberated 
from them, when they unite with bases in the process of saponi- 
fication. It is usually obtained in the process for making lead 
plaster, by mixing litharge (oxide of lead) with olive oil and 
boiling water, by which the fatty acid unites with the lead, and 
is precipitated, and the glycerin remains in solution. It is 
freed from any lead it may contain by means of a stream of 
sulphuretted hydrogen gas, and is afterwards filtered through 
animal charcoal ; or it may be made more directly by blowing 
steam through fat, which causes a separation of the glycerin 
and fatty acids. It is a thick, syrupy liquid, colorless or straw- 



COLLODION. 340 

colored, imctous to the touch, inodorous, and of a sharp, sweet 
taste. When pure, its sp. gr. is 1.26, when it contains 98 per 
cent, of anhydrous glycerin. It is soluble in oils, alcohol, and 
water, but is insoluble in ether and chloroform. It is a very 
general solvent, and does not evaporate when exposed to the 
air, but absorbs one half its weight of water. 

Effects and Uses. — Glycerin is a bland and unirritating sub- 
stance. It has the capacity of diffusing itself freely over and 
through organic matter, incorporating itself between organic 
molecules, by which it is absorbed and appropriated. It may 
be used internally as a nutrient and demulceilt, and is particu- 
larly efficacious in cachectic, strumous, and asthenic conditions 
in children ; but it is as a topical application that it is chiefly 
employed. As an enema in dysentery, to soften hardened 
mucus in the air-passages, in various cutaneous affections, in 
diphtheria, in deafness attended with dryness of the meatus, and 
as a vehicle or solvent for active medicines, glycerin is a valu- 
able article. The name plasma is applied to a compound of 
glycerin (f Si) and starch (grs. 70), mixed at 240° F, ; this is 
used as a substitute for ointments, and is a good excipient for 
pills. 



COLLODIU M — C OLLODION. 

This is a solution of gun-cotton in ether and alcohol. Gun- 
cotton is prepared by adding half a troyounce of pure cotton 
to a mixture of 10 troyounces of nitrate of potassa in 15J 
troyounces of sulphuric acid ; the cotton is to be afterwards 
washed first with cold and then with boiling water, and this is 
to be displaced with stronger alcohol ; 56 grains of gun-cotton, 
dried at 212° F., may be dissolved in a mixture of 3J fluid- 
ounces of stronger ether and a fluiclounce of stronger alcohol. 
Collodion is a colorless, transparent, syrupy liquid, with a 
strong ethereal smell. By exposure to the air, the solvent 
evaporates, with a deposit of crystals of gun-cotton, the collo- 
dion thus solidifying, and, in so doing, contracting and becom- 



350 MATERIA MEDICA. 

ing strongly adhesive. In this way it proves antiphlogistic, by 
driving the blood away from a part, limiting effusion, and pro- 
moting absorption, and, at the same time, acts as an admirable 
emollient by protecting an inflamed surface from the action of 
the air. It is a useful application to ulcers, fissures, and skin 
diseases, and erysipelatous parts. It is used also in surgery as 
a substitute for adhesive plaster, and in pharmacy as a vehicle 
for other medicines. Iodized collodion (a very good solution 
of iodine for external application), contains from ten to twenty 
grains of iodine in a fluidounce of collodion. Collodion 
containing tannic acid (gr. xx-fgi), is a good styptic appli- 
cation. 



LIQUOR GUTTJE PERCHJE — SOLUTION OF GUTTA 
PERCHA. 

This is a solution of a troyounce and a half of gutta percha 
in 17 troyounces of purified chloroform. In preparing it, car- 
bonate of lead is employed to free it from coloring matter. It 
is a clear, colorless, or nearly colorless solution, and should be 
kept in well-stoppered glass vials. By the evaporation of the 
chloroform, this proves an admirable application to inflamed or 
abraded parts in skin affections, chaps, &c. ; also an excellent 
protective coating to parts threatened with bed-sores or liable 
to excoriation. 



FERMENTUM — YEAST. 

This well-known product of fermentation is a flocculent, 
frothy, somewhat viscid substance, of a dirty-yellowish color, a 
sour, vinous odor, and a bitter taste. It is insoluble in alcohol 
or water. Its most important characteristic is its power of 
exciting the vinous fermentation in saccharine and starchy 
liquids. It is occasionally used in low fevers, attended with 
irritability of the stomach, in the dose of f Sss-ij, every two or 



SAFFRON. 351 

three hours, which sometimes proves laxative. Externally, 

it is added to farinaceous poultices, applied to sloughing 
ulcers. 



MEL — HONEY. 

This liquid, the familiar product of the bee, best used in the 
form of Mel Despumatum [Clarified Honey), is a slightly laxa- 
tive article of food, and is used in pharmacy, and as an agreea- 
ble demulcent ingredient in gargles. 

Saccharum [Sugar), and Syrupus Fusctjs (3Iolasses), are 
pleasant demulcents, useful in slight catarrhal affections, and 
entering in endless variety of combination into most domestic 
and medicinal remedies for this class of affections. Their phar- 
maceutical uses are manifold ; the preservative action of sugar 
is of inestimable advantage in this branch of the Materia 
Medica. 

Saccharum Lactis (Sugar of Milk), the saccharine principle 
of milk, is used as a bland non-nitrogenous article of diet. By 
fermentation, sugar of milk gives rise to lactic acid (aeidum 
lacticum), a limpid, syrupy liquid, which has been used in cer- 
tain forms of dyspepsia, and for the removal of phosphatic de- 
posits in the urine, in the dose of 5i-iij during the day. 



ORDER III. — COLORING AGENTS. 

These are employed exclusively for pharmaceutical pur- 
poses. The following articles enter into officinal preparations, 
to which they are intended to communicate their peculiar 
color. 



CROCUS — SAFFRON. 

This is the stigmas of Crocus Sativus (Nat. Ord. Iridacese), 
a small perennial plant, the native country of which is Greece 



352 MATERIA MEDICA. 

and Asia Minor, but now cultivated all over Europe and in our 
own country. In Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, it has been 
raised to considerable extent. The stigmas are an inch or 
more in length, of a rich deep-orange color, a peculiar aromatic 
odor, and a warm, pungent, bitter taste. 

Saffron is now admitted to possess little if any medicinal 
activity, and is used only to impart color and flavor to officinal 
preparations. 

SANTALUM — RED SAUNDERS. 

This is the wood of Pterocarpus Santalinus, a large tree of 
India and Ceylon (Nat. Ord. Fabacese). It comes in roundish 
or angular billets, internally of a blood-red color, externally 
brown, of little smell or taste ; in the shops, it is found in the 
form of chips, raspings, or coarse powder. It is employed 
solely to give color to spirits and tinctures. 



COCCUS — COCHINEAL. 

This is an insect, termed Coccus Cacti, of Mexico and Cen- 
tral America, naturalized in Teneriffe and other places. The 
female insect, dried, constitutes the article of the shops. It 
occurs in the form of roundish or somewhat angular grains, 
about an eighth of an inch in diameter, convex on one side, 
concave or flat on the other, and wrinkled. Two varieties are 
distinguished, one reddish-gray, the other nearly black, known 
as silver grains and black grains. It has a faint heavy odor, 
and a bitter, slightly acidulous taste. 

Cochineal has had antispasmodic virtues attributed to it, and 
has been used in whooping-cough, especially in combination 
with carbonate of potassa — dose, to infants, a third of a grain 
three, times a day. It is chiefly employed, however,* to color 
tinctures and ointments. 



pinkroot. 353 



ORDER IY. ANTHELMINTICS. 






Anthelmintics are medicines which promote the expulsion of 
worms from the alimentary canal. They act in different ways : 
some weaken or destroy the worms by a direct poisonous influ- 
ence, others by mechanical means ; the drastic cathartics have 
an anthelmintic effect, from the increased secretion and exhala- 
tion which they induce from the alimentary canal. 



SPIGELIA PINKROOT. 

Pinkroot is the root of Spigelia Marilandica, or Carolina 
Pink (Nat. Ord. Spigeliaceae), an herbaceous, indigenous plant, 
found chiefly in our Southern and Southwestern States. The 
root is perennial, and consists of a number of slender fibres ; 
the stems are numerous, from a foot to a foot and a half 
high, of a purplish color, furnished with sessile, opposite, 
ovate-lanceolate leaves, and terminate in spikes, bearing 
carmine-colored, funnel-shaped flowers, which appear from 
May to July. The root, as found in the shops, consists of 
numerous slender, wrinkled, branching, brownish fibres, 
attached to a dark-brown cauclex, and has a faint peculiar 
smell, and a sweetish, slightly bitter taste ; its activity is 
diminished by time. Boiling water extracts its virtues, which 
are thought to depend upon a bitter principle ; it contains also 
volatile oil, resin, and other matters. 

Effects and Uses. — In ordinary doses, pinkroot often proves 
anthelmintic without any sensible effect on the system. In 
larger doses, it purges and sometimes vomits ; and, in excessive 
doses, it operates as a narcotic poison, producing vertigo, 
dilated pupils, convulsions, and death. It is less apt to occa- 
sion narcotic effects when it acts on the bowels, and hence it is 
usually combined with or followed by cathartics. As an 
anthelmintic, it is considered the most reliable article we 
possess. 

Administration. — Dose of the powdered root, 5i-ij\ -for an 

23 



354 



MATERIA MEDICA. 



adult ; for a child three or four years old, gr. x-xx, to be 
repeated night and morning, for three or four days, and 
followed by a brisk cathartic ; calomel is sometimes combined 
with it. The infusion is the usual form of administration 
(half a troyounce to boiling water Oj, with frequently senna 



Fig. 26. 




half a troyounce) ; dose f 5ss-j for a child two or three years 
old, f oiv-viij for an adult, night and morning. The fluid 



WORMSEED. 



355 



extract contains in a fluidounce a troyounce of spigelia — 
dose, for a child two years old, ten drops. The fluid 
extract of Spigelia and Senna (which contains also carbonate 
of potassa and the oils of caraway and anise), is a pleasant 
preparation ; dose, f Sss for an adult, foj for a child. 



CHENOPODIUM WORMSEED. 

Wormseed is the fruit of Chenopodium anthelminticum, or 

Fig. 27. 

if 



%»**» 







Jerusalem Oak (Nat. Oral. Chenopodiaceae), an indigenous, 
herbaceous, perennial plant, from two to five feet high, with 
alternate, oblong-lanceolate, sinuated and toothed, yellowish- 



356 MATERIA MEDICA. 

green leaves, with numerous small flowers of the same color, 
arranged in long terminal panicles. Wormseed, as found in 
the shops, is in small spherical grains, not larger than a pin's 
head, of a dull, greenish-yellow or brownish color, a peculiar 
offensive smell, and a rather aromatic, pungent taste. Their 
sensible and medicinal properties are owing to a volatile oil 
(Oleum Chenopodii), obtained by distillation. 

Effects and Uses. — Wormseed is a very efficient anthelmin- 
tic, particularly adapted to the expulsion of lumbrici from 
children. Dose, 3i— ij for a child two or three years old, in 
molasses, night and morning, for three or four days, to be 
followed by a brisk cathartic. The oil is more used than the 
fruit ; dose, gtt. v-x for a child, in emulsion with sugar. The 
expressed juice of the leaves, and a decoction made with milk, 
are also used. 



SAISTTONICA. 

The unexpanded flowers and peduncles of Artemisia 
Contra and of other species of Artemisia, are used in Europe 
as an anthelmintic (in the dose of 10 to 30 grains), under the 
name of European Wormseed. They contain volatile oil, resin, 
and a peculiar principle, termed Santonin — Santoninuin- This 
is the anthelmintic constituent of Santonica, and is much em- 
ployed. Dose, 2 or 3 grains, two or three times a day, in the 
form of lozenge or syrup. 



AZEDA'RACH. 

This is the bark of the root of Melia Azeclarach, or Pride 
of China (Nat. Ord. Meliacese), an Asiatic tree, cultivated ex- 
tensively as an ornamental tree in our Southern States. It 
has a bitter, nauseous taste, and yields its virtues to boiling 
water ; but, as it is used only in the recent state, it is not 
found in our shops. Its effects are said to resemble those of 
Spigelia. The decoction is the preferred form of administration, 



MALE FERN. 357 






(four troyounces to water Oij, boiled to Oj) ; dose for a child 
fg'ss, every two or three hours, till it affects the stomach and 
bowels ; or night and morning, for several days. 



MUCUNA — COW HAG E. 

The hairs of the pods of Mucuna pruriens (Nat Ord. Fa- 
bacese), a West Indian perennial climbing plant, act as an an- 
thelmintic, by a mechanical penetration of the worms. The pods 
are about four inches long, shaped like the Italic letter f, and 
are covered with brown bristly hairs, which, when handled, 
stick in the fingers, and produce an intense itching. For 
administration, the pods are dipped into syrup or molasses, and 
the hairs scraped off with the liquid, which should have the 
consistence of thick honey. Dose, a tablespoonful for an adult, 
a teaspoonful for a child, night and morning, for several days, 
and followed by a cathartic. 

FILIX MAS — MALE FERN. 

Aspidium Filix Mas, or Male Fern (Nat Ord. Filicales), is 
an indigenous plant, common to all parts of the world, with a 
perennial, horizontal root, from which spring numerous annual, 
oval, lanceolate, acute, bright-green pinnate fronds or leaves, 
from a foot to four feet in height ; the leaflets are deeply lobate, 
oval, crenate at their edges, and gradually diminish from the 
base of the pinna to the apex. The rhizoma is the portion 
used. It is a long, cylindrical caudex, covered with the 
remains of the leaf-stalks ; and, as found in the shops, it is 
generally broken into fragments, of a brown color externally, 
internally yellowish-white or reddish, with a peculiar feeble 
odor, and a sweetish, bitter, astringent, nauseous taste. It 
deteriorates by keeping. It contains volatile oil, fixed oil, 
resin, tannic and gallic acids, &c, &c. Its virtues are sup- 
posed to reside in the ethereal extract, which is the fixed oil 
in an impure state, containing volatile oil, resin, coloring mat- 
ter, &c. 



358 MATERIA MEDICA. 

Effects and Uses. — Male fern possesses tonic and astringent 
properties ; but its chief use is to cause the expulsion of taenia, 
which it destroys by a specific action. Its efficacy in this re- 
spect has been long and well attested. Dose, of the powder, 
5i-iij, in electuary or emulsion, night and morning, for one 
or two days; of the ethereal extract, gr. x-xx, repeated; and 
in both cases a cathartic is to be afterwards given. 



GRANATI RADICIS CORTEX — BARK OF POMEGRANATE 

ROOT. 

The bark of the root of Punica granatum (see p. 153), is 
used for the expulsion of taenia. It is a powerful styptic, and 
may act in this way. It is given in decoction (two troyounces 
to water Oij, boiled to Oj), dose, f§ij, or more. 

Oleum Terebinthin^ (Oil of Turpentine), (see p. 261), is 
used as a remedy for taenia and other worms. Dose, foj, com- 
bined with or followed by castor oil. 

Calomel (see p. 282), is a valuable anthelmintic, given in 
cathartic doses. 

Brayera (Koosso). The flowers and unripe fruit of 
Brayera Anthelmintica (Nat. Ord. Bosaceae), a native of 
Abyssinia, have been introduced into European practice, as a 
remedy for taenia, under the name of koosso. The dried flowers 
occur in unbroken, compressed clusters, of a greenish-yellow 
color, a fragrant balsamic odor, and a faint taste, which after 
a time becomes acrid and disagreeable. They are said to 
impart their virtues best to hot water, and to yield gum, resin, 
fatty matter, tannic acid, &c. They are best given upon an 
empty stomach, after a previous evacuation of the bowels, in 
the dose of half a troyounce of the powder, mixed with half a 
pint of warm water. 



PUMPKIN SEED. 359 



ROTTLERA — K AM EEL A 



This is the powder and hairs, obtained from the capsules of 
Rottlera tinctoria, or, as it is now termed, Mallotus philippi- 
nensis {Nat. Orel. Euphorbiacese), a small tree of Hindostan 
and the East India islands. It is an orange-red, granular, in- 
flammable powder, with little smell or taste, insoluble in cold, 
and nearly so in boiling water ; soluble in boiling alcohol and 
ether. It consists chiefly of resinous substances, to one of 
which, soluble in ether, and considered the active constituent, 
the name of rottlerin has been given. 

• Uses. — Kameela, or hamala, is a highly esteemed taeniacide 
in India, and has lately been introduced into Europe and our 
own country. Dose of the powder, 5i-ij- A tincture (six 
troyounces to alcohol Oj), is given in the dose of f Si— iv. Castor 
oil should be taken after the medicine. 



PEPO PUMPKIN SEED. 

The SEED of Cucurbita pepo, or common pumpkin, is proba- 
bly the most efficacious remedy known in the expulsion of tape- 
worm. These seeds are oval, flattish, grooved, 9 lines long by 
5 or 6 in breadth, of a light brownish-white color, a sweetish 
taste, and aromatic smell. They owe their activity to a prin- 
ciple, soluble in ether, chloroform, and especially alcohol. 
One or two troyounces of the fresh seeds, deprived of their 
outer envelope, beaten to a paste with finely powdered sugar, 
and diluted with water or milk, should be taken after a twenty- 
four hours' fast, and followed, in two or three hours, by a dose 
of castor oil. A fluid extract, made with alcohol and glycerin, 
is probably the best preparation. 



APPENDIX 



SIGNS AND ABBREVIATIONS USED IN PRESCRIPTIONS. 
I 
R, Recipe, take, 
aa, Ana, ( a va), of each, 
lb, Libra, librae, a pound, pounds. 
^, Uncia, uncise, an ounce, ounces. 
5, Drachma, drachmse, a drachm, drachms. 
9, Scrupulus, scrupuli, a scruple, scruples. 
0, Octarius, octarii, a pint, pints. 
f:§. Fluiduncia, fiuiduncise, a fluidounce, fluidounces. 
f^, Fluidrachma, fluidrachmse, a fluidrachm, fluidrachms. 
n\, Minimum, minima, a minim, minims. 

Ad 2 Yic, Ad duas vices, at two takings. 

Ad Lib., Ad libitum. 

Add., Adde, Addantur, add, let be added. 

Altern. Horis, Alternis horis, every other hour. 

Aq. Destil., Aqua destillata, distilled water. 

Aq. Ferv., Aqua fervens, hot water. 

Aq. Fluvial., Aqua fluvialis, river water. 

Aq. Font., Aqua fontana, spring water. 

Aq. Pluv., Aqua pluvialis, rain water. 

Bis Ind., Bis indies, twice a day. 

Bull., Bulliat, Bulliant, let it or them boil. 

Cap., Capiat, capiendum, let the patient take it, it must be taken.. 

Chart., Chartula, chartulse, a small paper, or papers. 

Cochleat., Cochleatim, by spoonfuls. 

Coch. Mag., Cochleare magnum, a tablespoonful. 

Coch. Med., Cochleare medium, a desertspoonful. 

Coch. Parv., Cochleare parvum, a teaspoonful. 

Col., Cola, coletur, strain, let it be strained. 

Collyr., Colly Hum, an eye-water. 

Comp., Compositus, compounded. 

Cong., Congius, congii, a gallon, gallons. 

C. M. S., Cras mane sumendus, to be taken to-morrow morning. 

C. N., Cras node, to-morrow night. 

Decot., Decoctum, a decoction. 

De D. in D., De die in diem, from day to day. 



362 APPENDIX. 

Dieb. Alter., Diebus Alternis, every other day. 

Dil., Dilue, dilutus, dilute, diluted. 

Dim., Dimidius, one-half. 

Div., Divide, divide. 

D., Doses, a dose. 

Elec, Electuarium, an electuary. 

Enem., Enema, enemata, a clyster, clysters. 

Exhib., Exhibeatur, let it be administered. 

F. H., Fiat haustus, let a draught be made. 

Fil., Filtra, filter. 

Ft., Fiat,fiant, let there be made. 

Garg., Gargarysma, a gargle. 

Gr., Granum, grana, a grain, grains. 

Gtt., Gutta, guttse, a drop, drops. 

Guttat., Guttatim, by drops. 

Haust., Haustus, a draught. 

Ind., Indies, daily. 

Inf., Infunde, pour in. 

Ixfus., Infusum, an infusion. 

Inj., Inficiaticr, let it be injected. 

Jul., Julepus, julepum, a julep. 

M., Misce, mix. 

Mane, in the morning. 

Mist., 3Mstura, a mixture. 

Mic. Pan., Mica panis, crumb of bread. 

No., Numero, in number. 

Omn. Hor., Omni horct, every hour. 

Omn. Bid., Omni biduo, every two days. 

Omn. Bih., Omni bihord, every two hours. 

Omn. Man., Omni mane, every morning. 

Omn. Nocte, Omni node, every night. 

Omn. Quadr. Hor., Omni quadrante horse, every quarter of an hour. 

Ph., Pharmacopoeia. 

Pocul., Poculum, a cup. 

P. R. N., Pro re nata, as the symptoms may call for. 

Pulv., Pulvis, a powder. 

Q. P., Quantum placeat, as much as you please. 

Q. S., Quantum sufficiat, enough. 

Quor., Quorum, of which. 

Redig. in Pulv., Redigatur in pulv er em, let it be reduced to powder. 

Repet., Repetatur, repetantur, let it or them be repeated. 

S., Signa, write. 

S. A., Secundum artem, according to art. 

Semih., Semihora, half an hour. 

Sign., Signatura, a label. 

Ss., Semis, a half. 

Sum., Sume, sumendus, take, let it be taken. 

Tabel., Tabella, a lozenge. 

Troch., Trochiscus, a lozenge. 

Trit. 



INDEX. 



Abbreviations, table of, 361. 
Abies balsamea, 260. 

Canadensis, 322. 

excelsa, 320. 

picea, 320. 
Abscesses, application of medicines 

to, 41. 
Absinthium, 109. 

Absorption of medicines, 24, 25, 26. 
Acacia, 334. 

Arabica, 334. 

catechu, 145. 

vera, 334. 
Aceta, 31. 
Acetate of ammonia, solution of, 194. 

iron, 131. 

lead, 159. 

morphia, 51. 

potassa, 246. 

zinc, 133. 
Acetic acid, 195. 
Acetum, 195. 

colchici, 250. 

lobelia;, 64. 

opii, 51. 

scilla;, 247. 
Acida mineralia, 138, 332. 

vegetabilia, 195. 
Acidum aceticum, 195. 

arseniosum, 297, 330. 

benzoicum, 269. 

carbolicum, 156. 

chromicum, 330. 

citricum, 195, 196. 

gallicum, 143. 

hydrocyanicuni, 71. 
dilutum, 71. 

lacticum, 351. 

muriaticum, 141. 
dilutum, 141. 

nitricum, 140. 

dilutum, 141. 

nitro-muriaticum, 141. 
dilutum, 142. 

sulphuricum, 139. 

aromaticum, 139. 



Acidum sulphuricum dilutum, 139. 

sulphurosum, 140. 

tannicum, 142, 143. 

tartaricum, 195, 196. 
Achillea, 111. 

millefolium, 111. 
Acipenser huso, 347. 
Aconite, 66. 

leaf, 66. 

root, 66. 
Aconiti folium, 0G. 

radix, 66. 
Aconitia, 66, 67. 
Aconitum, 66. 

Napellus, 66. 
Acorus calamus, 178. 
Acupuncture, 19. 
Adeps, 347. 
Adhesive plaster, 263. 
JEther, 79. 

fortior, 79. 
African kino, 146. 

pepper, 168. 
Agathotes chirayta, 104. 
Age, influence of, 35. 

on plants, 26. 
Albumen as an antidote for corrosive 

sublimate, 285. 
Alcohol, 165. 

dilutum, 166. 

fortius, 165. 
Alcoholic potassa, 330. 
Alder, black, 122. 
Ale, 167. 

Alexandria senna, 227. 
Allium, 259. 

sativum, 259. 
Allspice, 175. 
Allyl, sulphuret of, 259. 
Almond emulsion, 335. 
Aloe, 224. 

Barbadensis, 225. 

capensis, 224. 

purificata, 225. 

Socotrina, 224. 

spicata, 224. 



364 



INDEX. 



Aloe vulgaris, 224. 

Aloes, 224. 

Aloin, 225. 

Alterative diaphoretics, 240. 

Alteratives, 42, 274. 

Althaea, 338. 

officinalis, 338. 
Alum, 162, 209, 332. 

ammonio-ferric, 131. 

dried, 162, 163. 

whey, 163. 
Alum-root, 154. 
Alumeu, 162. 

exsiccatum, 163. 
Aluminse sulphas, 163. 
Amber, 96. 
American centaury, 102. 

columbo, 102. 

hellebore, 185. 

ipecacuanha, 208. 

opium, 44. 

poplar, 109. 

senna, 228. 

silver fir, 259. 

spikenard, 242. 
Amidogen, 287. 
Ammonia, 167. 

preparations of, 167, 314. 
Ammonia-alum, 162. 
Ammoniac, 91. 
Ammoniacum, 91. 
Ammonia; acetatis liquor, 194. 

aqua, 168,328. 

fortior, 167, 328. 

carbonas, 168. 

linimentum, 168. 

murias, 302. 

phosphas, 303. 

praeparata, 167, 314. 

spiritus, 168. 

aromaticus, 168. 

valerianas, 92. 
Ammoniated copper, 132. 

iron, 130. 

mercury, 278. 

tincture of guaiac, 241. 
valerian, 92. 

tinctures, 30. 
Ammonii iodidum, 292. 
Ammonio-citrate of iron, 130. 
Ammonio-ferric alum, 131. 
Amygdalus amara, 73. 
Amyl, acetate of, 86. 

hydruret of, 86. 

iodide of, 86. 

nitrate of, 86. 
Amylene, 86. 
Amylic alcohol, 85. 
Amylum, 346. 



Anaesthetics, ethereal, 42, 79 
Anamirta cocculus, 77. 
Angelica, 112. 

Archangelica, 112. 

tree, 242. 
Angustura, 110. 

bark, 110. 
Angustura, false, 110, 197. 
Anise, 182. 

star, 182. 
Anisum, 182. 
Anodynes, 43. 
Antacids, 42, 308. 
Anthelmintics, 42, 353. 
Anthemis, 106. 

cotula, 107. 

nobilis, 106. 
Antilithics, 308. 
Antimonial ointment, 190, 328. 

powder, 191. 

wine, 190. 
Antimoniated hydrogen, 191. 
Antimonii oxidum, 191. 

et potassae tartras, 188. 

oxysulphuretum, 190. 

praeparata, 188. 
Antimonium sulphuratum. 190. 
Antimony, preparations of, 188. 
Antispasmodics, 42, 88. 
Apiol, 255. 
Apocynin, 251. 
Apocvnum cannabinum, 250. 
Apomorphia, 45. 
Apothecaries' weight, 34. 
Apples, 210. 

Aqua ammoniae, 168, 328. 
fortior, 167,' 328. 

amj-gdalae amarae, 73. 

aurantii florum, 180. 

camphorae, 76. 

chlorinii, 306. 

cinnamomi, 173. 

creasoti, 155. 

picis liquidae, 263. 

rosae, 153. 
Aquae, 29. 
Arabin, 335. • 
Aralia nudicaulis, 242. 

racemosa, 242. 

sninosa, 242. 
Arctostaphylos uva ursi, 150. 
Argenti nitras, 135. 

fusa, 136, 329. 

oxidum, 136. 

praeparata, 135. 
Argol, 219. 
Aristolochia reticulata, 106. 

serpentaria. 105. 
Arnica, 169. 



INDEX. 



Arnica montana, 169. 

Arnicina, 169. 

Aromatic confection, 178. 

powder, 177. 

spirit of ammonia, 168, 314. 

sulphuric acid, 139. 

svrup of rhubarb, 223. 
Aromaties, 164, 170. 
Arrack, 167. 
Arrow-root, 342. 
Arseniate of iron, 131. 
Arsenic, 297. 

acid, 297. 

preparations of, 297. 
Arsenici et hydrargyri iodidi liquor, 
301. 

iodidum, 301. 

prseparata, 297. 
Arsenious acid, 297, 330. 
Arsenite of potassa, solution of, 301. 

soda, 301. 
Artanthe elongata, 266. 
Artemisia absinthium, 109. 

contra, 356. 
Arteriotomy, 17. 
Artificial camphor, 75. 

musk, 95. 
Asparagin, 338. 
Aspidium Filix mas, 357. 
Assafetida, 88. 
Assafoetida, 88. 
Astragalus yerus, 336. 
Astringents. 42, 142. 143. 

mineral, 142, 158. 

yegetable, 142. 
Atomization of fluids, 38. 
Atomizers, 38, 39. 
Atropa belladonna, 54. 
Atropia, 54. 

sulphate of, 55. 
Aurantii cortex, 180. 

flores, 180. 
Ayena sativa, 345. 
Ayenas farina, 345. 
Azedarach, 356. 

Balm of Gilead tree, 260. 
Balsam of fir, 260. 

Peru, 270. 

Tolu, 270. 
Balsamodendron Myrrha, 268. 
Balsams, 269. 
Balsamum Peruyianum, 270. 

Tolutanum, 270. 
Bandages. 19. 
Barbadoes aloes, 224, 225. 
Barbary gum, 334. 
Barberry, 104. 
Barilla, 312. 



Bark of sassafras root. 242. 
Barley, 345. 
Barosma crenata, 267. 

crenulata, 267. 

serratifolia, 267. 
Basilicon ointment, 263. 
Bassorin, 335. 
Baths, 20, 21, 22. 

of iodine, 201. 
Bay-rum, 167. 
Bean of St. Ignatius*, 199. 
Bearberry, 150. 
Bebeeru bark, 122. 
Bebeerina, 122. 
Belladonna, 54. 

leaf, 54. 

root, 54. 
Belladonnas folium, 54. 

radix, 54. 
Benne leaf, 339. 

oil, 339. 
Benzoe amygdaloides, 269. 

in sortis, 269. 
Benzoic acid, 269. 
Benzoin, 268. 
Benzoinum, 268. 
Berberina, 104, 254. 
Bicarbonate of potassa, 310, 311. 

soda. 313. 
Bichloride of carbon, 87. 

mercury, 284. 

methylene. 85. 
Bichromate of potassa, 305, 332. 
Biniodide of mercury, 286. 
Bismuth, subnitrate of, 137. 
Bismuthi subcarbonas, 137. 

subnitras, 137. 
Bitartrate of potassa, 219. 
Bitter almond water, 73. 

cucumber, 233. 

orange, 180. 
Bitters, aromatic. 98, 105. 

astringent, 98, 111. 

simple, 98. 
Bittersweet, 70. 
Black alder, 122. 

drop, 51. 

ginger, 176. 

hellebore, 233. 

mustard, 318. 

nightshade, 70. 

oak bark, 148. 

oxide of mercury, 281. 

pepper, 172.322. 

snake root. '-'."'7. 

wash, 281. 
Blackberry root, 154. 
Blennorrheas, 42. 245. 255. 
Blistering cerate, 325. 



366 



INDEX. 



Blisters, 322. 
Bloodletting, 17, 18. 
Bloodroot, 206. 
Blue pill, 237, 238, 279. 

vitriol, 132. 
Boneset, 107. 
Borate of soda, 193. 
Borax, 193. 

Bordeaux turpentine, 260. 
Borneo camphor, 74. 
Botany bay kino, 146. 
Bran, 210. 
Brandy, 167. 
Brayera, 358. 

anthelmintica, 358. 
Brazilian sarsaparilla, 240. 
Brimstone, 214. 
Bromide of iron, 131, 294. 

ammonium, 294. 

lithium, 294. 

sodium, 294. 

mercury, 294. 

potassium, 294. 
Bromine, 293. 
Brominium, 293. 
Broom, 254. 
Brown ipecacuanha, 204. 

mixture, 340. 
Brucia, 197. 
Buchu, 267. 
Burgundy pitch, 320. 

plaster, 321. 
Butter, melted, 213. 

of cacao, 348. 

of nutmegs, 174. 
Butternut, 224. 

Cacao butter, 348. 
Cadmii sulphas, 137. 
Caffea, 93. 

Arabica, 93. 
Caffeic acid, 13. 
Caffeina, 93, 94. 
Caffeo-tannic acid, 93. 
Cajeput oil, 173. 
Calabar bean, 76. 
Calamina praeparata, 134. 
Calamine, 134. 
Calamus, 178. 
Calcined magnesia, 215. 
Calcis carbonas praecipitata, 316. 

phosphas praecipitata, 302. 

prasparata, 315. 
Calisaya bark, 112. 
Calomel, 237, 282, 358. 
Calor, 20. 
Calumb, 103. 
Calumba, 103. 
Calx chlorinata, 306. 



Camphene, 75. 
Camphor, 74. 

liniment, 76. 

water, 76. 
Camphora, 74. 

officinarum, 74. 
Camphorated tincture of opium, 50. 
Canada balsam, 260. 

fleabane, 250. 

pitch, 322. 

turpentine, 260, 261. 
Canella, 111. 

alba, 111. 
Canna, 343. 

edulis, 343. 
Cannabin, 68. 
Cannabis Indica, 68. 

sativa, 68. 
Cantharidin, 324. 
Cantharides, 323. 
Cantharis, 254, 323. 

vesicatoria, 323. 

vittata, 327. 
Cape aloes, 224. 
Capsicia, 171. 
Capsicum, 171, 320. 

annuum, 171. 
Caracas kino, 146. 
Caraway, 182. 
Carbolate of potassa, 157. 

soda, 157. 
Carbolic acid, 156. 
Carbon, tetrabromide of, 87. 

tetrachloride of, 86. 
Carbonate of ammonia, 168. 

iron, pills of, 125. 

lead, 162. 

lime, precipitated, 315, 316. 

lithia, 314. 

magnesia, 216, 313. 

potassa, 310, 311. 
pure, 311. 

soda, 312. 

dried, 313. 

zinc, precipitated, 134. 
Carbonates of soda, 312. 
Cardamom, 177. 
Cardamomum, 177. 
Carminatives, 164. 
Carolina pink, 353. 
Carota, 253. 
Carrageen, 341. 
Carrageenin, 341. 
Carron oil, 316. 
Carrot seed, 253. 

root, 254. 
Carthagena barks, 113. 
Carum, 182. 

carui, 182. 



INDEX. 



367 



Caryophyllin. 174. 
Caryophyllus, 174. 

aroinaticus, 174. 
Cascarilla, 110. 
Cascarillin, 111. 
Cassava plant, 343. 
Cassia acutifolia, 227. 

^Ethiopica, 227. 

cinnamon, 173. 

elongata, 227. 

fistula, 212. 

lanceolata, 227. 

Marilandica, 228. 

obovata, 227. 

purging, 212. 
Castillon powders, 346. 
Castor, 95. 

fiber, 95. 

oil, 212. 
Castoreum, 95. 
Castorin. 96. 
Cataplasmata. 34. 
Cataplasms. 27, 34, 333. 
Catechu, 145. 
Catecbuic acid, 145. 
Cathartic acid, 228. 
Cathartics, 42, 209. 
Caustic potassa, 329. 
Cauterants, 328. 
Cautery, actual, 21. 
Cayenne pepper, 171. 
Centaury, 102. 
Cephaelis ipecacuanha, 204. 
Cera alba, 347. 

flava,' 347. 
Cerasus serotina, 121. 
Cerata, 33. 
Cerates, 27, 33. 
Cerate of cantharides, 325. 

carbonate of zinc. 134. 

extract of cantharides, 326. 

lard, 34, 347. 

subacetate of lead, 161. 
Ceratum adipis, 34, 347. 

calamine?, 134. 

cantharidis, 325. 

cetacei, 347. 

extracti cantharidis, 326. 

plumbi subacetatis, 161. 

resinoe, 263. 

compositum, 263. 

sabina?, 273. 

simplex, 34. 

zinci carbonatis, 134. 
Cerii oxalas, 138. 
Cetaceum, 347. 
Cetraria, 341. 

islandica, 341. 
Cetraric acid, 341. 



Cetrarin, 341. 
Cevadilla, is;. 
Ceylon cinnamon, 1 72. 
Chalk mixture. 316. 

prepared, 315, 316. 
Chalybeafes, 123, 273. 
Chamomile, 106. 

German, 107. 

wild, 107. 
Champagne wine, 166. 
Chemical electricity, 23. 
Chenopodium, 355. 

anthelminticum, 355. 
Chian turpentine, 260. 
Chimaphila, 151. 

maculata, 152. 

umbellata, 151. 
China camphor, 74. 

cinnamon, 173. 

musk, 94. 
Chinese rhubarb, 221. 
Chiratin, 104. 
Chirayta, 104. 
Chiretta. 104. 
Chloral, 52. 

Chlorate of potassa, 304. 
Chloride of lime, 306. 

iron, 127. 

tincture of, 127. 

zinc, 134, 330. 
Chlorides of mercury, 279. 
Chlorinated lime, 306. 
Chlorine water, 306. 
Chlorocarbon, 87. 
Chloroform, 79, 82. 

purified, 82. 
Chloroformum, 82. 

purificatum, 82. 
Chlorohydric acid. 141. 
Chocolate, 92. 
Choke cherry, 120. 
Chondrus, 341. 

crispus, 34. 
Cholagogues, 276. 
Chromic acid, 330. 
Chrysophanic acid, 222. 
Cicuta, 05. 
Cimicifuga, 257. 

racemosa, 25 7. 
Cinchona, 112. 

Calisaya, 112. 

Condaminea, 112. 

flava, 112. 

micrantha, 112. 

pallida, 112. 

rubra, 112. 

succirubra. 112. 
Cinchonia, 114, 115. 
Cinchonicia, 119. 



368 



INDEX. 



Cinchonidia, 114, 115. 
Cinchoniae sulphas, 119. 
Cincho-tannic acid, 114. 
Cinnabar, 275, 288. 
Cinnamic acid, 173, 270. 
Cinnamomum, 172. 

aromaticum, 172. 

Zeylanicum, 172. 
Cinnamon, 172. 

water, 173. 
Cissampelina, 268. 
Cissampelos pareira, 267. 
Citrate of iron, 129. 

and quinia, 131. 

lithia, 314. 

magnesia, solution of, 217. 

potassa, 194. 

mixture of. 19-4. 
Citric acid, 196. 
Citrine ointment, 288. 
Citrullus colocynthis, 233. 
Citrus aurantium, 180. 

vulgaris, 180. 
Classification of Medicines, 41. 
Claviceps purpurea. 200. 
Climate, influence of. 66. 

on plants. 26. 
Cloves, 174. 

Clutterbuck's elaterium, 236. 
Clysters, 40. 
Coca, 94. 
Cocaina, 94. 
Coccoloba uvifera, 146. 
Cocculus Indicus, 77. 

palmatus, 102. 
Coccus, 352. 

cacti, 352. 
Cochineal, 352. 
Cochlearia armoracia, 255. 
Codamia, 45. 
Codeia, 45. 
Cod-liver oil, 295. 
Coffee. 92. 
Cohosh, 257. 
Colchici radix, 248. 

semen, 248. 
Colchicia, 249. 
Colchicum, 248. 

autumnale, 248. 

root, 248. 

seed, 248. 
Cold, 21, 22. 
Colica Pictonum, 158. 
Collodion, 349. 

with cantharides, 327. 
Collodium, 349. 

cum cantharide, 327. 
Collyria, 37. 
Colocynth, 233. 



Colocynthin, 234. 

Colocynthis, 233. 

Colombian barks, 113. 

Colombin, 103. 

Coloring agents, -42, 351. 

Columbo, 103. 

Compound cathartic pills. 235. 

decoction of sarsaparilla, 241. 

extract of colocynth, 233, 234. 

galbanum pills, 90. 

mixture of iron, 126. 

pills of antimony, 191. 

pills of iron, 126. 

powder of jalap, 220. 230. 

solution of iodine. 290. 

spirit of ether. 97. 
juniper, 253. 

syrup of sarsaparilla, 241. 
squill. 247, 258. 
Confectio opii, 49. 

aromatica, 178. 

rosae, 153. 

sennas, 212, 228. 
Confection of opium, 49. 

rose, 153. 

senna, 212. 
Confectiones, 28. 
Confections, 26, 28. 
Conia, 65. 
Conium, 64. 

maculatum, 64. 
Conserves, 28. 

Convolvulus scammonia, 232. 
Copaiba, 263. 
Copaifera officinalis, 263. 

multijuga, 264. 
Copaivic acid, 264. 
Copper, preparations of, 131. 

subacetate of, 133. 

sulphate of, 132, 332. 
Copperas, 126. 
Coptis, 100. 

teeta, 101. 

trifolia, 100. 
Coriander, 182. 
Coriandrum, 182. 

sativum, 182. 
Cornus Florida. 119. 
Corroborants, 97. 

Corrosive chloride of mercury, 284, 
331. 

sublimate, 284, 331. 
Cotton, 203. 

root, 203. 
Cotula. 107. 
Court-plaster, 347. 
Cowhage, 357. 
Cranesbill. 149. 
Cream of tartar, 219, 244. 



INDEX. 



369 



Creasote, 154. 

ointment, 155. 

water, 155. 
Creasotum, 154. 
Creta praeparata, 316. 
Crocus, 351. 

sativus, 351. 
Croton eleuteria, 110. 

oil, 236, 328. 

tiglium, 236. 
Crotonic acid, 236. 
Crowfoot, 150. 
Crude camphor, 74. 

liquorice, 340. 

nitre, 192. 

quinia, 118. 

sulphur, 214. 

tartar, 217. 
Cryolite, 312. 
Cryptopia, 45, 46. 
Cubeb, 265. 
Cubeba, 265. 
Cubebin, 265. 
Cucurbita pepo, 359. 
Cultivation, influence of, on plants 

26. 
Culver's root, 226. 
Cupri praeparata, 131. 

subacetas, 133. ■ 

sulphas, 132. 
Cuprum ammoniatum, 132. 
Cups, 18. 
Curare, 78. 
Curarine, 78. 
Cusparin, 110. 
Cyanide of potassium, 73. 

mercury, 286. 
Cyanhydric acid, 71. 
,Cynanchum olesefolium, 227. 
Cynips quercusfolii, 144. 
Cypripedium, 92. 

pubescens, 92. 
Cytisus scoparius, 254. 

Dandelion, 252. 
Daphne gnidium, 243. 

mezereum, 243. 
Daphnin, 244. 
Datura stramonium, 57. 
Daturia, 58. 
Daucus carota, 253. 
Deadly nightshade, 54. 
Decocta, 30. 
Decoction of azedarach, 335. 

barley, 345. 

blackberry root, 154. 

black snakeroot, 259. 

cotton root, 203. 

cranesbill, 150. 



Decoction of dogwood. L20. 

dulcamara, To. 

elder, 230. 

fleabane, 250. 

Iceland moss, 342. 

Indian hemp, 251. 

Irish moss, 341. 

liquorice root, 340. 

logwood, 148. 

marsh-mallow, 339. . 

oak bark, 149. 

Peruvian bark (yellow or red), 
117. 

pipsissewa, 153. 

pomegranate, 153. 

sarsaparilla, compound, 241. 

seneka, 257. 

uva ursi, 151. 
Decoctions, 26, 30. 
Delphinium consolida, 254. 
Demulcents, 42, 332. 
Deshler's salve, 263. 
Diachylon, 161. 
Diaphoretics, 42, 239. 
Diffusible stimulants, 165. 
Digestion, 29. 
Digitaline, 184. 
Digitalis, 183, 246. 

purpurea, 183. 
Diluents, 333. 
Diluted alcohol, 166. 

hydrocyanic acid, 71. 

muriatic acid, 141. 

nitric acid, 141. 

nitro-muriatic acid, 142. 

sulphuric acid, 139. 
Diospyros, 154. 

Yirginiana, 154. 
Diseases, influence of, 36. 
Distilled oils, 170. 
Diuretics, 42, 244. 
Dogwood, 119. 
Donovan's solution, 301. 
Dorema ammoniacum, 91. 
Doses, modifying effects of, 26. 

of medicines, 35. 
Dover's powder, 49, 205. 
Dracontium, 93. 

foetidum, 93. 
Drachm, 34. 
Drastics, 209, 230. 
Dried alum, 162, 163. 

carbonate of soda, 311. 

sulphate of iron, 126, 127. 
Drops, 35. 

Dryobalanops camphora, 7.4. 
Dulcamara, 70. 
Dutch camphor, 74. 



24 



370 



IXDEX. 



East India kino. 146. 
Ecbalium agreste, 235. 
Ecbolina, 201. 
Eccritics', 42, 204. 
Effects of medicines, 24. 
Effervescing draught, 194. 
Egyptian opium, 44. 
Elaterin, 235. 
Elaterium, 235. 
Elder, 229. 
Electricitas, 22. 
Electricity, 22, 23. 
Electro-puncture, 19. 
Electuaries, 28. 
Elettaria cardamomum, 177. 
Elixir of vitriol, 139. 
Ellis' magnesia, 215. 
Emetia, 204. 
Emetics, 42, 204. 

mineral, 209. 

vegetable, 204. 
Emmenagogues. 42, 271. 
Emollients, 333. 
Emplastra, 33. 
Emplastrum ammoniaci, 91. 

cum hydrargyro, 230. 

arnica?. 159. 

assafcetidas, 90. 

belladonna;. 56. 

ferri, 125. 

galbani, 90. 

hydrargyri, 280. 

opii. 40. 

picis Burgundica?, 321. 
Canadensis. 322. 
cum cantharide, 321. 

plumbi. 33, 161. 

resina?, 263. 

saponis, 161. 
Emulsions, 29. 
Endermic application of medicines, 

36. 
Enemata, 40, 238. 
Epispastics, 317, 322. 
Epsom salt, 216. 
Ergot, 200. 
Ergota, 200. 
Ergotic acid, 201. 
Ergotina, 201. 
Erigeron, 250. 

Canadense, 250. 

heterophyllum, 250. 

Philadelphicum, 250. 
Errhines. 37. 
Erythroxylon coca, 94. 
Escharotics, 317, 328. 
Essential oils, 170. 
Ether, 79. 

stronger, 79. 



Ethereal oil, 96. 

tinctures, 30. 
Etherization, 79. 
Ethyl, 79. 

Eucalyptus resinifera, 146. 
Eugenia pimenta, 175. 
Eugenin, 174. 
Eupatorium, 107. 

perfoliatum, 107. 
Euphorbia corollata, 207. 

ipecacuanha, 207. 
European opium, 44. 

rhubarb, 222. 

wormseed, 356. 
Expectorants, 255. 
Extract of aconite, 67. 
alcoholic, 67. 

American hellebore, fluid, 186. 

arnica, alcoholic, 169. 

belladonna, 56. 

black hellebore, alcoholic, 233. 
snakeroot, fluid, 259. 

buchu, fluid, 268. 

butternut. 224. 

calabar bean. 77. 

colchicum, 250. 
fluid, 250. 

colcynth, alcoholic, 234. 
'compound, 233, 234. 

cranesbill, 150. 

dandelion, 253. 
fluid, 253. 

dulcamara, 71. 
fluid. 71. 

ergot, fluid, 203. 

foxglove, alcoholic. 185. 

gentian, 102. 

gentian, fluid, 102. 

ginger, fluid, 178. 

hemlock. 66. 

alcoholic, 66. 
fluid, 66. 

hemp, 68. 

purified, 68. 

henbane, 60. 

alcoholic, 60. 
fluid, 60. 

Ignatia, alcoholic, 200. 

ipecacuanha, fluid, 205. 

jalap, 230. 

leptandra, fluid, 226. 

logwood, 148. 

lupulin, fluid, 70. 

male fern, ethereal, 357. 

May apple, 232. 

nux vomica, alcoholic, 199. 

opium, 49. 

pareira brava, fluid, 267. 

Peruvian bark (yellow), 117. 



INDEX. 



371 



Extract of Peruvian bark, fluid, 117. 

pinkroot, fluid, 354. 

pipsissewa, 153. 

quassia, 99. 

rhatany, 147. 

rhubarb, 223. 
fluid, 223. 

sarsaparilla, fluid, 242. 
compound fluid, 242. 

seneka, alcoholic, 257. 

senna, fluid, 228. 

spigelia and senna, fluid, 354. 

stramonium leaf, 58. 
alcoholic, 58. 

uva ursi, fluid, 151. 

valerian, fluid, 92. 
alcoholic, 92. 

Virginia snakeroot, fluid, 105. 

wild cherry bark, fluid, 122. 
Extracta, 32. 

fluida, 32. 
Extracts, 32. 
Extractum cannabis, 68. 
purificatum, 68. 

glycyrrhizas, 340. 

opii, 49. 
Eye-washes, 37. 

False angustura bark, 110, 197. 

sarsaparilla, 242. 
Fat manna, 211. 
Fennel, 182. 

water. 182. 
Fermentum, 350. 
Fern, male, 357. 
Ferri ammonio-citras, 130. 

carbonatis, pilulas, 125. 

chloridi, tinctura, 128. 

chloridum, 127. 

citras, 129. 

et ammonias sulphas, 131. 

et ammoniae tartras, 131. 

et potassae tartras, 129. 

et quiniae citras, 131. 

ferrocyanidum, 130. 

iodidi, syrupus, 129. 

iodidum, 128. 

lactas, 130. 

nitratis, liquor, 130. 

oxidum hydratum, 124. 

saccharatum, 125. 

phosphas, 129. 

preeparata, 123. 

pyrophosphas, 129. 

subcarbonas, 125. 

subsulphatis, liquor, 127. 

sulphas, 126. 

exsiccata, 127. 

tersulphatis, liquor, 127. 



Ferrocyanide of iron, 130. 

Ferruginea, 123. 

Ferrum ainnioniatinn, 130. 

redactum, 12-4. 
Figs, 210. 
Filix mas, 357. 
Flag, sweet, 178. 
Flake manna, 211. 
Flax, common, 336. 
Flaxseed, 336. 
meal, 337. 
oil, 213, 337. 
Fleabane, Canada, 250. 
Philadelphia, 250. 
various-leaved, 250. 
Florida arrow-root, 322. 
FloAvers of sulphur, 214. 
Fluid extracts, 32. 
Fluidrachm, 35. 
Fluidounce, 35. 
Fluoride of sodium and aluminum, 

312. 
Foeniculum, 182. 
vulgare, 182. 
Fonticuli, 19. 

Forms in which medicines are used, 26. 
Formyl, terchloride of, 82. 
Fowler's solution, 301. 
Foxglove, 183. 
Frasera, 102. 

Waited, 102. 
Fraxinus ornus, 211. 

rotundifolia, 211. 
Friction electricity, 13. 
Frictions, 19. 
Frigus, 21. 
Fumigation, 34. 
Fusel oil, 86. 

Gaduin, 295. 
Gadus morrhua, 295. 
Galbanum, 90. 
Galipea officinalis, 110. 
Gall-oak, 144. 
Galla, 144. 
Gallic acid, 142. 
Gallon, 35. 
Galls, 144. 
Gamboge, 234. 
Gambogia, 234. 
Gargarismata, 38. 
Gargles, 38. 
Garlic, 259, 322. 
Gases, 27, 34. 
Gaultheria, 179. 

procumbens, 179. 
Gelatin, 346. 
Gelatina, 346. 
Gelseminia, 188. 



372 



INDEX. 



Gelseminic acid, 188. 
G-elsemium, 187. 

sempervirens, 187. 
Gentian, 101. 
Gentiana, 101. 

lutea, 101. 
Gentianin, 101. 
Geranium, 149. 

maculatum, 150. 
Geum rivale, 122. 
Gillenia, 208. 

stipulacea, 208. 

trifoliata, 208. 
Gin. 167. 
Ginger, 176, 322. 
Glaubers salt, 217. 
Glycerin, 348. 
Glvcerina, 348. 
Glycyrrhiza, 339. 

echinata, 339. 

glabra, 339. 
Glycyrrhizin, 340. 
Golden sulphur of antimony, 191. 
Goldthread, 100. 
Gossypii radix, 203. 
Gossypium herbaceum, 203. 
Goulard's cerate, 161. 

extract, 160. 
Grains. 34. 
Granati fructus cortex, 153. 

radicis cortex, 358. 
Granville's lotion, 328. 
Gray ipecacuanha. 204. 
Greenhart tree, 122. 
Green iodide of mercury, 286. 
Green vitriol, 126. 
Ground-holly, 151. 
Guaiac 42. 
Guaiaci lignum, 24f. 

resina. 242. 
Guaiacin, 243. 
Guaiacum, 242. 

officinale, 242. 

wood, 242. 
Guanara, 94. 

Guatemala sarsaparilla, 240. 
Gum, 335. 

Arabic, 334. 

Barbary, 334. 

India, 334. 

Senegal, 334. 

Turkey, 334. 

Habit, influence of, 36. 
Haematics, 42, 273. 
Haematin, 148. 
Haematinics, 42, 273. 
Hematoxylin, 148. 
Haematoxylon, 147. 



Haematoxylon Campechianum, 147. 
Hardhack, 122. 
Haschisch, 68. 
Heat, 20. 
Hedeoma, 181. 

pulegioides, 181. 
Hellebore, American, 185. 

black, 233, 272. 

white, 186. 
Helleborus, 233. 

niger, 233. 
Hemlock, 64. 

spotted, 64. 

spruce, 322. 

pitch plaster, 322. 
Hemp, Indian, 207. 
Henbane, 58. 

leaf, 58. 

seed, 58. 
Henry's magnesia, 215. 
Hepatic aloes, 225. 
Heuchera, 154. 

Americana, 154. 
Hiera picra, 111, 226. 
Hirudo decora, 18. 

medicinalis, 18. 
Hive-syrup, 247. 
Hoffman's anodyne liquor, 97. 
Honduras sarsaparilla, 240. 
Honey, 210, 351. 

of rose, 153. 
Honeys, 26, 31. 
Hope's camphor mixture, 141. 
Hops, 69. 
Hordein, 345. 
Hordeum, 345. 

distichon, 345. 
Horehound, 181. 
Horsemint, 181. 
Horseradish, 255. 
Howard's calomel, 283. 
Hulled barley, 345. 
Humulus, 69. 

lupulus, 69. 
Husband's magnesia, 215. 
Huxham's tincture of bark, 106, 117. 
Hydragogues, 209. 

Hydrargyri chloridum corrosivum, 
284, 331. 
mite, 237, 282. 

cyanidum, 286. 

iodidum viride, 286. 
rubrum, 286. 

oxidum nigrum, 281. 
rubrum, 281. 

nitratis unguentum, 288. 
liquor, 288, 331. 

praeparata, 275. 

sulphas flava, 287. 



INDEX. 






Hydrargvri sulphuretum rubrum, 

2S7. 
Hydrargyrum amnion latum, 287. 

cum creta, 238, 281. 
Hydrastis, 254. 
Hydrastis Canadensis. 254. 
Hydrate of chloral, 52 
Hydrated oxide of iron, 124, 300. 
Hydrocyanic acid, Tl. 
Hygienic remedies, 17. 
Hyoscyami folium, 58. 

semen, 58. 
Hyoscyamia, 59. 
Hyoscyamus, 58. 

niger, 58. 
Hypnotics, 43. 
Hypodermic application of medicines, 

37. 
Hyposulphite of soda, 140. 

Iceland moss, 341. 
Ichthyocolla, 347. 
Idiosyncrasy, influence of, 35. 
Igasuria, 197. 
Igasuric acid, 197. 
Ignatia, 199. 
Ilex Paraguaiensis, 94. 
Illicium anisatum, 182. 
Imagination, influence of, 36. 
Imponderable remedies, 20. 
India gum, 334. 

opium, 44. 

senna, 227. 
Indian hemp, 250. 

physic, 208. 

tobacco, 62. 
Infusa. 29. 
Infusion of American centaury, 103. 

American columbo, 102. 

American senna, 229. 

angustura, 110. 

blood-root, 207. 

buchu, 268. 

carrot-seed, 254. 

cascarilla, 111. 

catechu, compound. 145. 

cayenne pepper, 171. 

chamomile, 107. 

cloyes. 175. 

columbo, 104. 

coptis, 101. 

dandelion. 252. 

flaxseed, compound, 337. 

fleabane, 250. 

foxgloye, 185. 

gentian, 102. 

ginger, 178. 

hops, 70. 

juniper, 253. 



Infusion of lobelia. 63. 
magnolia, 109. 

matico, 266. 

pareira brava, 2'',:. 

Peruvian bark (yellow i 
117. 

pink-root, 354. 

quassia, 99. 

rhatany, 147. 

rhubarb, 223. 

rose, compound, 153. 

senna, 228. 

sweet flag, 179. 

thoroughwort, 100. 

tobacco, 61. 

valerian, 92. 

Virginia snake-root. 106. 

wild cherry bark, 122. 

wormwood, 109. 

yarrow, 111. 
Infusions, 26, 29. 
Inhalation, 34, 38. 
Injections, 40. 
Iodide of ammonium, 292. 

arsenic, 301. 

and mercury, 301. 

iron, 128, 291. 

lead, 161, 291. 

mercury, 286, 291. 

potassium, 291. 

sodium, 292. 

starch, 291. 

sulphur, 291. 

zinc, 134, 291. 
Iodides of mercury, 279, 291. 
Iodine, 289. 
Iodinium, 289. 
Iodized collodion, 350. 
Iodoform, 293. 
Iodoformum, 293. 
Ipecacuanha, 204. 

American, 208. 

spurge, 207. 
Ipomcea purga, 230. 
Irish moss, 341. 
Iron, preparations of, 123. 271, 273. 

reduced, 124. 
Irritants, 42, 164, 317. 
Isinglass, 347. 
Issues, 19. 

Jalap, 230. 
Jalapa, 230. 
Jamaica ginger, 176. 

kino, 146. 

sarsaparilla, 240. 
James' powder, 191. 
Jamestown weed. 57. 
Janipha manihot, 343. 



374 

Japan camphor. 74. 
Jerusalem oak, 355. 
Jesuit's powder, 116. 
Jewell's calomel, 283. 
Juglans. 224. 

cinerea, 224. 
Juices, 33. 
Jujube paste, 335. 
Juniper, 167, 253. 
Juniperus, 253. 

communis, 253. 

sabina, 272. 

Yirginiana. 272. 

Kamala, 359. 
Kameela. 359. 
Kelp, 312. 

Kermes mineral, 190. 
Kinic acid, 114. 
Kino, 146. 
Kinoic acid, 146. 
Kinovic acid, 114. 
Koosso. 358. 
Krameria, 147. 

triandra, 147. 
Krameric acid, 147. 

Labarraque's liquid, 306. 
Lac assafcetidae, 90. 

sulpburis. 215. 
Lactate of iron, 130. 
Lactic acid. 351. 
Lactuca sativa, 53. 

elongata, 54. 
Lactucarium. 53. 
Lactucin, 53. 
Lantbopia, 45. 
Lard, 347. 

oil, 347. 
Larkspur, 254. 
Laudamia, 45. 
Laudanum, 50. 
Lavandula, 180. 

vera, 180. 
Lavements, 40. 
Lavender, 180. 
Laxatives, 209, 210. 
Lead artkralgy, 158. 

colic, 158. 

plaster, 33, 161. 

paralysis, 158. 

preparations of, 158. 

water, 161. 
Ledoyen's disinfecting fluid, 161. 
Leeches, 18. 
Lemon-juice, 196. 

syrup, 196. 
Lenitives. 332. 



IXDEX. 



Leopard's bane, 169. 
Lepidolite. 314. 
Leptandra, 226. 

Virginica, 226. 
Leptandrin, 226. 
Lettuce-opium, 53. 
Lichenin, 341. 
Light, 20. 
Lignum vitas, 242. 
Lime, preparations of, 315. 
Lime-water, 315. 
Limonis succus, 196. 
Lini farina, 337. 
Liniment of ammonia, 168, 320. 

cantharides, 227. 
Linimenta, 27, 33. 
Liniments, 33. 
Linimentum ammonias, 168, 320. 

calcis. 316. 

cainphoras. 76. 

cantharidis, 327. 

chloroformi, 84. 

saponis, 76. 

terebinthinas, 262. 
Linseed oil, 336. 
Linum, 336. 

usitatissimum, 336. 
Liquids, 26, 28. 
Liquor ammoniae acetatis. 194. 

arsenici et hydrargvri iodidi, 
301. 

calcis, 315. 

ferri citratis, 130. 
nitratis. 130. 
subsulphatis, 127. 
tersulphatis, 127. 

guttas perchas, 350. 

hydrargvri nitratis, 288, 330. 

iodinii compositus, 290. 

magnesias citratis, 217. 

morphias sulphatis, 52. 

plumbi subacetatis, 160. 

potassas, 310. 

arsenitis, 301. 
citratis, 194. 

sodas, 311. 

chlorinatas, 307. 
Liquores, 28. 
Liquorice, 340. 

root, 339. 
Liriodendrin, 110. 
Liriodendron, 109. 

tulipifera, 109. 
Litharge, 161. 

Lithia, preparations of, 314. 
Lithias carbonas, 314. 

citras, 314. 

prasparata, 314. 
Lobelia, 62, 208. 






INDEX. 



375 



Lobelia inflata, 62. 
Lobelina, 62. 
Logwood, 147. 
Lozenges, 26, 28. 
Lump gamboge, 234. 
Lunar caustic, 136, 329. 
Lupulin, 69, 70. 
Lupulite, 69. 
Lux, 20. 

Mace. 173. 
Maceration, 29. 
Macis, 173. 
Madder, 273. 
Madeira wine, 166. 
Magnesia, 215, 315. 

alba, 216. 

preparations of, 315. 
Magnesia? carbonas, 216, 315. 

citratis liquor, 217. 

praeparata, 315. 

sulphas, 216. 
Magnesite, 216. 
Magnetism, 23. 
Magnolia, 109. 

acuminata, 109. 

glauca, 1-09. 

tripelata, 109. 
Malamide, 338. 
Male fern, 357. 
Mallotus philippinensis, 359. 
Malt, 345. 

liquors, 167. 
Mandrake, 231. 
Manganesii sulphas, 218. 
Manna, 211. 

cannulata, 211. 

in sorts, 211. 
Mannite, 211. 
Maranta, 342. 

arundinacea, 342. 
Marjoram, 181. 
Marrubium, 181. 

vulgare, 181. 
Marshmallow, 338. 
Marsh's test for arsenious acid, 298. 
Martial preparations, 123. 
Mate, 94. 

Materia medica, definition of, 17, 23. 
Maticin, 266. 
Matico, 266. 
Matricaria, 107. 

chamomilla, 107. 
May-apple, 231. 
Mayweed, 107. 
Meadow saffron, 248. 
Measures and weights, 35. 
Mecca senna, 227. 
Mechanical remedies, 17. 



Meconic acid, 45. 
Meconidia, 45. 
Meconin, 45. 
Medicated syrups, 32. 

waters, 26, 29. 
Medicines, definition of, 23. 
Mel, 351. 

rosae, 153. 

sodae boratis, 193. 
Melaleuca cajuputi, 175. 
Melia azedarach, 356. 
Mellita, 31. 
Menispermia, 78. 
Mentha piperita, 180. 

viridis, 180. 
Mercurial cathartics, 209, 237, 278. 

fever, 276. 

ointment, 280. 

palsy, 275. 

plaster, 280. 
Mercury, black oxide of, 281. 

metallic, 275, 279. 

red oxide of, 281. 

preparations of, 275. 

with chalk, 237, 238, 281. 
Methyl-ethylic ether, 85. 
Methylic ether, 85. 
Methylene, bichloride of, 85. 
Mezereon, 243. 
Mezereum, 243. 
Mild acrid cathartics, 209, 221. 

chloride of mercury, 237, 282. 
Milfoil, 111. 
Milk of assafetida, 90. 
Mineral acids, 138, 332. 

astringents, 142. 

tonics, 98, 123. 
Minims, 35. 
Mistura ammoniaci, 91. 

amygdalae, 335. 

assafoetidae, 90. 

chloroformi, 85. 

cretae, 316. 

ferri composita, 126, 268. 

glycyrrhizae composita, 340. 

potassae citratis, 194. 
Misturae, 28. 
Mixtures, 26, 28. 
Modus operandi of medicines 
Molasses, 210, 351. 
Momordica elaterium, 235. 
Monarda, 181. 

punctata, 181. 
Monkshood, 66. 
Monsel's solution, 127. 
Montpelier scammony, 233. 
Morphia, 45, 51. 

preparations of, 51. 
Morphia? acetas, 51. 



376 



INDEX. 



Morphias murias, 51. 

sulphas, 51. 
Mosckus, 94. 

moschiferus, 94. 
Moxa, 21. 
Mucilage, 335. 
Mucilago acacias, 335. 

sassafras, 338. 

tragacanthae, 336. 

ulmi, 338. 
Mucous membranes, application of 

medicines to, 37. 
Mucuna, 357. 

pruriens, 357. 
Muriate of ammonia, 302. 

morphia, 51. 
Muriatic acid, 141. 

diluted, 141. 
Musk, 94. 
Mustard, 208, 318. 

whey, 319. 
Myristica, 173. 

moschata, 173. 
Myrospermum peruiferum. 270. 

toluiferum, 270. 
My ro syne, 318. 
Myrrh, 268. 
Myrrha, 268. 

rceia, 45. 
Narcotics, 42, 43. 
Narcotina, 45. 
Narthex assafcetida, 88. 
Natron, 312. 
Nauseants, 204. 
Nauseating diaphoretics, 239. 
Nebulization of fluids, 38. 
Nectandra, 122. 

Kodiei, 122. 
Nervous sympathy, doctrine of, 24. 
Neurotics, 42, 43. 
Neutral mixture, 194. 
Nicotiana tabacum, 60. 
Nicotia, 60. 
Nicotianin, 60. 
Nightshade, black, 70. 

deadly, 54. 
Nitrate of "lead, 161. 

mercury, 288, 289. 

potassa, 192. 

silver, 135. 

fused, 136, 329. 
Nitrates of mercury, 279. 
Nitre, 192. 
Nitric acid, 140. 

diluted, 141. 
Nitro-muriatic acid, 141. 

diluted, 142. 
Nitrous oxide, 87. 



Nitrous oxide powders, 193, 
Norway spruce, 320. 
Nutgall, 144. 
Nutmeg, 173. 
Nux vomica, 197. 

Oak bark, 148. 
Oatmeal, 210, 345. 
Occupation, influence of, 36. 
Officinal, definition of term, 24. 
Oil of amber, 96. 

anise, 182. 

arnica, 169. 

bitter almond, 73. 

cajeput, 175. 

camphor, 75, 76. 

Canada fleabane, 250. 

caraway, 182. 

cardamom, 177. 

castor, 96. 

cinnamon, 173. 

cloves, 175. 

copaiba, 264, 265. 

cubeb, 265. 

ergot, 201. 

fennel, 182. 

garlic, 259. 

ginger, 177. 

horsemint, 181. 

juniper, 253. 

lavender, 180. 

mace, 174. 

marjoram, 181. 

mustard, 318. 

nutmeg, 174. 

partridge-berry, 179. 

pennyroyal, 181. 

peppermint, 180. 

pimento, 175. 

rosemary, 181. 

rue, 273. 

sassafras, 244. 

savine, 272, 273. 

spearmint, 180. 

sweet almond, 212. 

tar, 262. 

theobroma, 348. 

thyme, 181. 

tobacco, 61, 62. 

turpentine, 175, 261, 320, 358. 

valerian, 91, 92. 

vitriol, 139. 

wine, 96. 

wormseed, 356. 

yarrow, 112. 
Oil-cake, 337. 
Oils, volatile, 170. 

distilled, 170. 

essential, 170. 



INDEX. 



377 



Ointment of ammoniated mercury, 
287. 

antimony, 190, 328. 

belladonna, 57. 

benzoin, 269. 

calomel, 284. 

cantharides, 327. 

carbonate of lead, 162. 

creasote, 155. 

iodide of lead, 161. 

of mercury, 286. 

iodide of potassium, 292. 

iodine, 291. 

compound, 291. 

lard, 33, 347. 

mercury, 280. 

mezereon, 244. 

nitrate of mercury, 238. 

nutgall, 145. 

oxide of zinc, 133. 

red iodide of mercury, 286. 
oxide of mercury, 282. 

stramonium, 58. 

subacetate of copper, 133. 

sulphur, 214. 

tar, 263. 

tobacco, 62. 

veratria, 187. 

white hellebore, 186. 
Ointments, 27, 33. 
Olea Europcea, 212. 

volatilia, 170. 
Oleoresin of black pepper, 172. 

Cayenne pepper, 171. 

cubeb, 266. 

ginger, 178. 

lupulin, 70. 
Oleoresinae, 33. 
Oleoresins, 33. 
Oleum aethereum, 96. 

amygdalae amarae, 73. 
dulcis, 212. 

cajuputi, 175. 

camphorae, 76. 

caryopbylli, 175. 

chenopodii, 356. 

cinnamomi, 173. 

copaibas, 264, 265. 

cubebae, 265. 

gaultheriae, 179. 

juniperi, 253. 

lini, 337. 

morrhuae, 295. 

myristicas, 174. 

olivae, 212. 

pimentae, 175. 

ricini, 212. 

sabinae, 272. 

sassafras, 244. 



Oleum sesami, 339. 

succini rectification, 96. 

tabaci, 62. 

terebinthime, 175, 261, 320, 358. 

theobromae, 348. 

thvmi, 181. 

tiglii, 236, 328. 
Olive oil, 212. 

tree, 212. 
Opiania, 45. 
Opium, 43. 

plaster, 49. 
Orange flower water, 180. 

peel, 180. 
Orchis mascula, 346. 
Origanum, 181. 

vulgare, 181. 
Ovis aries, 347. 
Oryza, 346. 

sativa, 346. 
Ounce, 34. 
Oxalate of cerium, 131. 

iron, 138. 
Oxide of antimony, 191. 

ethyl, 79. 

lead, 161. 

silver, 136. 

zinc, 133. 
Oxides of mercury, 279. 
Oxymels, 26, 31. 
Oxysulphuret of antimony, 190. 
Oyster-shell, prepared, 315. 
Ozonic ether, 308. 

Painters' colic, 158. 
Pale bark, 112, 113. 

rose, 153. 
Palma Christi, 212. 
Papaver, 43. 

somniferum, 43. 
Papaverina, 45, 46. 
Paraguay tea, 94. 
Paramenispermin, 78. 
Paramorphia, 45, 46. 
Paregoric elixir, 50. 
Pareira, 267. 

brava, 267. 
Parsley, 254. 
Partridge-berry, 179. 
Parts to which medicines are applied. 

36. 
Paullinia sorbilis, 94. 
Peaches, 210. 
Pearlash, 310. 
Pearl barley, 345. 

sago, 344. 
Pennyroyal, 181. 
Pepper, black, 172, 322. 

Cayenne, 171. 



378 



INDEX. 



Pepper, white, 172. 
Peppermint, 180. 

water, 181. 
Pepo, 359. 
Pepsine, 123. 
Percolation, 29. 
Percolator, 29. 

Permanganate of potassa, 305. 
Peroxide of hydrogen, 307. 
Persian opium, 44. 
Persimmon, 154. 
Peruvian bark, 112. 
Petroselinum sativum, 254. 
Pharmaceutical modifications, 26. 
Pharmacological remedies, 23. 
Pharmacopoeia, 24. 
Pharmacy, definition of, 23. 
Phenylic alcohol, 156. 
Phosphate of ammonia, 303. 

iron, 129. 

lime, 302. 

soda, 218. 
Phosphorus, 170, 
Phosphuret of zinc, 170. 
Physeter macrocephalus, 347. 
Physostigma, 76. 

venenosum, 76. 
Physostigmin, 77. 
Picrotoxin, 78. 
Pills, 26, 27. 

of aloes, 225. 

and assafetida, 226. 
and mastic, 226. 
and myrrh, 226, 268. 

antimony, compound, 191. 

assafetida, 90. 

carbonate of iron, 125. 

cathartic, compound, 235. 

copaiba, 264. 

galbanum, compound, 90. 

iodide of iron, 129. 

iron, compound, 125, 268. 

mercury, 238, 279. 

opium, 49. 

rhubarb, 223. 

compound, 223. 

soap, compound, 49. 

squill, compound, 248. 
Pilulas, 27. 

antimonii compositas, 191. 

ferri carbonatis, 125. 
compositse, 125. 
iodidi, 129. 

hydrargyri, 238, 279. 

opii, 49. 

saponis compositae, 49. 
Pimenta, 175. 
Pimento, 175. 
Pimpinella anisum, 182. 



Pinkroot, 353. 

Pint, 35. 

Pinus palustris, 175, 260. 

taeda, 260. 
Pipe gamboge, 234. 
Piper, 172. 

cubeba, 265. 

nigrum, 172. 
Piperin, 172, 
Pipsissewa, 151, 246. 
Pitch, 262. 
Pix Burgundica, 320. 

Canadensis, 322. 

liquida, 262. 
Plasma, 348. ' 
Plaster of ammoniac, 91. 

ammoniac with mercury, 91, 281. 

antimony, 190, 321. 

arnica, 169. 

assafetida, 90. 

belladonna, 56. 

Burgundy pitch, 321. 

Canada pitch, 322. 

galbanum, compound, 90, 321. 

iron, 125, 321. 

mercury, 280. 

opium, 49, 321. 

pitch with cantharides, 321. 
Plasters, 27, 33. 
Plumbi acetas, 159. 

carbonas, 162. 

iodidum, 161. 

nitras, 161. 

oxidum, 161. 

prseparata, 158. 

subacetatis liquor, 160. 
Plummer's pills, 191. 
Podophyllum, 231. 

peltatum, 231. 
Poison-nut, 197. 
Poison-oak, 200. 
Polygala senega, 256. 
Polygalic acid, 257. 
Pomegranate rind, 153. 

root, bark of, 358. 
Poppy, black, 43. 

white, 43. 
Poppy-heads, 44. 
Porphyroxin, 45. 
Port wine, 166. 
Porter, 167. 
Potassa, 329. 

cum calce, 330. 

preparations of, 310. 

solution of, 310. 

with lime, 330. 
Potassae acetas, 246. 

bicarbonas, 311. 



INDEX. 



:;::• 



Potassa? bitratras, 219. 

carbonas, 310. 
pura, 311. 

chloras, 304. 

citras, 194. 

et soda? tartras. 220. 

nitras, 192. 

permanganas, 305. 

praeparata, 310. 

sulphas, 219. 

tartras, 220. 
Potassii bromidum, 294. 

cyanidum, 73. 

iodidum, 291. 
Potato, 70. 

flies. 327. 
Potentilla tormentilla, 154. 
Pound, 34. 
Poultices, 34, 333. 
Powder of aloes and canella, 111, 226. 

ipecacuanha, compound, 49, 205. 

jalap, compound, 220, 230. 

rhubarb, compound, 223. 
Powders, 26, 27. 

aperient, effervescent, 221. 

Seidlitz, 196, 221, 314. 

soda, 196, 313. 
Precipitated carbonate of lime, 315, 
316. 

phosphate of lime, 302. 

sulphur, 215. 

carbonate of zinc, 134. 
Prepared calamine, 134. 

chalk, 316. 

oyster-shell, 317. 
Pride of China, 356. 
Prinos verticillatus, 122. 
Proof spirit, 166. 
Prophylamia, 201. 
Prunes, 210. 
Primus Yirginiana, 121. 
Psychotria emetica, 205. 
Prussian blue, 130. 
Prussic acid, 71. 
Pseudomorphia, 45. 
Pterocarpus erinaceus, 146. 

marsupium, 146. 

santalinus, 352. 
Pulp of prunes, 228. 

purging cassia, 212, 228. 

tamarinds, 228. 
Pulveres, 27. 

effervescentes aperientes, 221. 
Pulverization of fluids, 38. 
Pulvis aloes et canellas, 111. 

antimonialis, 191. 

aromaticus, 177. 

ipecacuanha? compositus, 49, 
205. 



Pumpkin-seed, 359. 
Punica granatum, 153. 
Purgatives, 209. 
Purging cassia, 212. 
Purified aloes, 225. 
Purple foxglove, 183. 
Pyroligneous acid. 262. 
Pyrophosphate of iron, 129. 

Quassia, 99. 

amara, 99. 
Quassin, 99. 
Quercin, 148. 
Quercitron, 148. 
Quercus alba, 148. 

infectoria, 144. 

tinctoria, 148. 
Quevenne's iron, 124. 
Quicksilver, 275. 
Quinia, 114. 

amorphous, 118. 

crude, 118. 
Quinia? sulphas, 117. 

valerianas, 118. 
Quinicia, 119. 
Quinidia, 114, 115. 
Quinoidia, 118. 
Quinoidine, 118. 

Race, influence of, 36. 
Eaisins, 210. 

Rectified oil of amber, 96. 
Red bark, 112, 113. 

cedar, 272. 

iodide of mercury, 286. 

ipecacuanha, 20-4. 

oxide of mercury, 281. 

precipitate, 282. 

rose, 153. 

saunders, 352. 

sulphuret of mercury, 288. 
Refined camphor, 74. 

nitre, 192. 
Refrigerant diaphoretics, 239. 
Refrigerants, 183, 193. 
Reinsch's test for arsenious acid, 208. 
Remedies, definition of, 17. 

division of, 17. 

hygienic, 17. 

imponderable, 20. 

mechanical, 17. 

pharmacological, 23. 
Resin, 263. 

cerate, 263. 

of jalap, 231. 

of May a^pple, 232. 

of scammony, 233. 

plaster, 263. 
Resina, 263. 



380 



INDEX. 



Rhatany, 147. 
Rheum, 221. 

palmatum, 221. 
Rhigolene, 85. 
Rhodeoretin, 230. 
Rhoeadinia, 45. 
Rhoeagenia, 45. 
Rhubarb, 221. 
Rhus toxicodendron, 200. 
Rice, 346. 
Ricinolein, 213. 
Ricinus communis, 212. 
Rio Negro sarsaparilla, 240. 
Rochelle salt, 220. 
Rosa centifolia, 153. 

Gallica, 153. 
Rosemary, 181. 
Rose-water, 153. 
Rosin, 263. 
Rosmarinus, 181. 

officinalis, 181. 
Rottlera, 359. 

tinctoria, 359. 
Rubefacients, 164, 317. 
Rubia, 273. 

tinctorum, 273. 
Rubus, 154. 

Canadensis, 154. 

villosus, 154. 
Rue, 273. 
Rufus' pills, 226. 
Rum, 167. 
Russian musk, 94. 

rhubarb, 222. 
Ruta, 273. 

graveolens, 273. 
Rye, 200. 

Sabbatia, 102. 

angularis, 102. 
Sabina, 272. 

Saccharated oxide of iron, 125. 
Saccharum, 351. 

lactis, 351. 

Saturni, 160. 
Saffron, 351. 
Sage, 181. 
Sago, 344. 

palm, 344. 
Sagus Rumphii, 344. 
Sal ammoniac, 302. 

diureticus, 246. 
Salep, 346. 
Salicine, 96, 120. 
Saline cathartics, 209, 213. 
Salix, 120. 

alba, 120. 
Salt of tartar, 311. 
Saltpetre, 192. 



Salvia, 181. 

officinalis, 181. 
Sanguinaria, 206. 

Canadensis, 206. 
Sanguinarina, 206. 
Sanguisuga officinalis, 18. 
Santalum, 352. 
Santonica, 356. 
Santonin, 356. 
Santoninum, 356. 
Sarsaparilla, 240. 

false, 242. 
Sarsaparillin, 241. 
Sassafras medulla, 338. 

officinale, 244, 338. 

pith, 338. 

radicis cortex, 244. 
Savine, 272. 
Scabious, 250. 
Scammonium, 232. 
Scammony, 232. 
Scilla, 246, 260. 

maritima, 246. 
Scruple, 34. 

Scudamore's draught, 249. 
Scutellaria, 92. 

laterifolia, 92. 
Season of gathering, influence of on 

plants, 26. 
Seaside grape, 146. 
Secale cereale. 200. 
Secalia, 201. 
Sedatives, 42, 183. 
Seidlitz powders, 196, 221, 314. 
Semi-solids, 26, 33. 
Senega, 256. 
Senegal gum, 334. 
Seneka, 256, 271. 
Senna, 227. 

American, 229. 
Serous membranes, application of 

medicines to, 41. 
Serpentaria, 105. 
Sesami folium, 339. 
Sesamum Indicum, 339. 

orientale, 339. 
Sesquioxide of iron, 124, 299. 
Setacea, 19. 
Setons, 19. 
Sex, influence of, 35. 
Sherry wine, 166. 
Sevum, 347. 
Sialagogues, 276, 277. 
Signs and abbreviations, 361. 
Silver, preparations of, 135. 

fir, American, 260. 
European, 320. 
Simaruba, 100. 

excelsa, 99. 



INDEX. 



381 



Simaruba officinalis, 100. 
Simple cerate, 34, 327. 

ointment, 33. 

syrup, 32. 
Sinapis, 208, 318. 

alba, 208, 318. 

nigra, 208, 318. 
Sinapisin, 318. 
Sinapism, 319. 

Skin, application of medicines to, 36. 
Skunk cabbage, 93. 
Slippery elm, 337. 

bark, 337. 
Smelling salt, 169. 
Smilacin, 24. 
Smilax officinalis, 240. 
Smyrna opium, 44. 
Snakeroot, black, 257. 

seneka, 256. 

Virginia, 105. 
Soap cerate, 162. 

liniment, 76. 

plaster, 161. 
Socotrine aloes, 224. 
Soda, preparations of, 311. 

powders, 196, 313. 
Sodas bicarbonas, 313. 

boras, 193. 

carbonas, 312. 

exsiccata, 313. 

liquor, 311. 

phosphate, 218. 

prasparata, 311. 

sulphas, 217. 

sulphis, 140. 
Sodii iodidum, 292. 
Soil, influence of, on plants, 26. 
Solania, 70. 
Solanum dulcamara, 70. 

nigrum, 70. 

tuberosum, 70. 
Solids, 26, 27. 
Solubility, influence of, on medicines, 

26. 
Soluble tartar, 220. 
Solution of acetate of ammonia, 194. 

arsenite of potassa, 301. 
soda, 301. 

chlorinated soda, 306. 

citrate of iron, 130. 
magnesia, 217. 
potassa, 194. 

gutta percha, 350. 

iodide of arsenic and mercury, 
301. 

iodine, compound, 290. 

lime, 315. 

nitrate of iron, 130. 

of mercury, 288, 331. 



Solution of potassa, 310. 

soda, 311. 

subacetate of lead, 160. 

subsulphate of iron, 127. 

sulphate of morphia, 52. 

tersulphate of iron, 127. 
Solutions, 26, 28. 
Soporifics, 43. 
South American kino, 146. 
Spanish flies, 254, 323. 
Spastics, 197. 
Spearmint, 180. 

water, 181. 
Spermaceti, 347. 

cerate, 347. 
Spiced syrup of rhubarb, 223. 
Spigelia, 353. 

Marilandica, 353. 
Spikenard, American, 242. 
Spinants, 42, 197. 
Spiraea tomentosa, 122. 
Spirit of ammonia, 168. 

aromatic, 168, 314. 

camphor, 76. 

chloroform, 84. ' 

cinnamon, 173. 

ether, compound, 97. 

juniper, compound, 253. 

lavender, 180. 

compound, 180. 

Mindererus, 194. 

nitrous ether, 195. 

nutmeg, 174. 

peppermint, 181. 

rosemary, 181. 

spearmint, 181. 
Spirits, 26, 31. 
Spiritus, 31. 

aetheris compositus, 97. 
nitrosi, 175. 

ammonias, 168. 

aromaticus, 168, 314. 

camphorse, 76. 

chloroformi, 84. 

cinnamomi, 173. 

frumenti, 167. 

juniperi compositus, 253. 

lavandulse, 180. 

compositus, 180. 

menthas piperitas, 181. 
viridis, 181. 

Mindereri, 194. 

myrciae, 167. 

myristicas, 174. 

rosmarini, 181. 

sacchari, 167. 

vini Gallici, 167. 
Spruce, hemlock, 320. 

Norway, 319. 



382 



INDEX. 



Spurge, ipecacuanha, 207. 

large flowering, 207. 
Squill, 208, 246, 260. 
Squirting cucumber, 235. 
St. Ignatius' bean, 199. 
Star anise, 182. 
Starch, 289, 346. 
Sternutatories, 37. 
Stimulants, 42, 164. 

diffusible, 165. 
Stimulating diaphoretics, 239. 
Stomachics, 164. 
Stramonii folium, 57. 

semen, 57. 
Stramonium, 57. 

leaf, 57. 

seed, 57. 
Strychnia, 197, 199. 
Strychnos nux vomica, 197. 

Ignatia, 199. 
Styrax benzoin, 268. 
Subacetate of copper, 133. 

lead, solution of, 158. 
Subcarbonate of bismuth, 137. 

iron, 125. 
Sublimed sulphur, 214. 
Subnitrate of bismuth, 136. 
Succi, 33. 
Succinic acid, 96. 
Succinum, 96. 
Succus conii, 66. 

limonis, 196. 
Sudorifics, 239. 
Suet, 347. 
Sugar, 351. 

of lead, 160. 

of milk, 351. 
Sulphate of alumina, 161. 

alumina and potassa, 162. 

bebeerina, 122. 

cadmium, 137. 

cinchonia, 119. 

copper, 132, 209, 332. 

iron, 126. 

dried, 126, 127. 
and ammonia, 131. 

magnesia, 216. 

manganese, 218. 

mercury, yellow, 287. 

morphia, 51. 

potassa, 219. 

quinia, 117. 

quinidia, 115. 

soda, 217. 

strychnia, 199. 

zinc, 133, 209. 
Sulphite of ammonia, 140. 

lime, 140. 

magnesia, 140. 



Sulphite of potash, 140 

soda, 140. 
Sulpho-carbolates, 157. 
Sulpho-carbolic acid, 157, 
Sulpho-sinapisin, 317. 
Sulphur, 214. 

lotum, 214. 

praecipitatum, 215. 

sublimatum, 214. 
Sulphurated antimony, 190. 
Sulphuret of mercury, red, 288. 
Sulphuric acid, 139. 

aromatic, 139. 
diluted, 139. 

ether, 79. 
Sulphurous acid, 140. 
Suppositories, 40. 
Suppurants, 317, 327. 
Sus scrofa, 347. 
Sweet flag, 178. 

orange, 180. 

spirit of nitre, 195. 
Sydenham's laudanum, 51. 
Symplocarpus foetidus, 93. 
Syrup, 32. 

of almond, 73. 
" citric acid, 196. 

garlic, 260. 

ginger, 178. 

gum Arabic, 335. 

iodide of iron, 129. 

ipecacuanha, 205. 

lactucarium, 54. 

orange peel, 180. 

poppies, 44. 

rhatany, 147. 

rhubarb, 223. 

aromatic, 223. 

rose, 153. 

sarsaparilla, compound, 241 

seneka, 257. 

squill, 247. 

compound, 247, 257. 

Tolu, 271. 

wild-cherry bark, 122. 
Syrupi, 32. 
Syrups, 26, 32, 
Syrupus, 32. 

amygdalae, 73. 

ferri iodidi, 129. 

fuscus, 330. 

Tabacum, 60. 
Tablespoon, 35. 
Tamarinds, 210. 
Tannate of iron, 131. 
Tannic acid, 142, 143. 
Tapioca, 343. 
Tar, 262. 



INDEX. 



383 



Tar water, 263. 
Taraxacin, 252. 
Taraxacum, 252. 

dens-leonis, 252. 
Tartar emetic, 188, 209. 
Tartaric acid, 195, 196. 
Tartrate of antimony and potassa, 188. 
iron and ammonia, 131. 

potassa, 129. 
potassa, 220. 
potassa and soda, 220. 
Tea, 93. 
Teacup, 35. 
Teaberry, 179. 
Teaspoon, 35. 

Temperament, influence of, 35. 
Terchloride of formyl, 83. 
Terebinthina, 260. 
Terra Japonica, 145. 
Testa prseparata, 317. 
Tetrabromide of carbon, 87. 
Tetrachloride of carbon, 86. 
Thea, 93. 

Chinensis, 93. 
Thebaia, 46. 
Thebolactic acid, 45. 
Theina, 93, 94. 
Theobroma, 93. 

cacao, 348. 
Theobromia, 93. 
Therapeutics, definition of, 23. 
Thornapple, 57. 
Thoroughwort, 107. 
Thyme, 181. 
Thymus, 181. 

vulgaris, 181. 
Tinctura ferri chloridi, 128. 

opii, 50. 

opii acetata, 51. 

camphorata, 50. 
deodorata, 50. 
Tincturse, 30. 

Tincture of aconite leaf, 67. 
root, 67. 

aloes, 226. 

and myrrh, 226. 

American hellebore, 186. 

arnica, 169. 

assafetida, 90. 

belladonna, 56. 

benzoin, compound, 269, 271. 

black hellebore, 233. 
snake-root, 259. 

blood-root, 207. 

calabar bean, 76. 

cantharides, 254. 

capsicum, 171. 

cardamun, 177. 

compound, 177. 



Tincture of castor, 96. 
catechu, 146. 
chloride of iron, 128. 
cinnamon, 170. 
colchicum, 250. 
columbo, 104. 
coptis, 101. 
cranesbill, 150. 
cubeb, 266. 
foxglove, 185. 
gentian, compound, 102. 
ginger, 178. 
guaiac, 243. 

ammoniated, 243. 
hemlock, 66. 
henbane, 60. 
hops, 70. 
Indian hemp, 69. 
iodine, 290. 

compound, 291. 
jalap, 231. 
kino, 146. 
lobelia, 63. 
lupulin, 70. 
myrrh, 268. 
nutgall, 145. 
nux vomica, 199. 
opium, 50. 

acetated, 51. 
camphorated, 50. 
deodorized, 50. 
Peruvian bark, 117. 
compound, 117. 
quassia, 99. 
rhatany, 147. 
rhubarb, 223. 

and aloes. 223. 
and gentian, 223. 
and senna, 223. 
squill, 248. 
stramonium, 58. 
Tolu, 271. 
valerian, 92. 

ammoniated, 92. 
Virginia snake-root, 106. 
yellow jasmine, 188. 
Tinctures, 26, 30. 
Tinnivelly senna, 227. 
Tobacco, 60, 208. 
Tolu, balsam of, 270. 
Tonics, 42, 97. 

mineral, 98, 123. 
vegetable, 98. 
Topical medicines, 42, 317. 
Tormentil, 154. 
Tormentilla, 154. 
Tous les mois, 343. 
Toxicodendric acid, 200. 
Toxicodendron, 200. 



384 



INDJSX. 



Tragacanth, 336. 
Tragacantha, 336. 
Tragacanthin, 336. 
Tremor niercurialis, 2 75. 
Tripoli senna, 227. 
Troches, 28. 

of bicarbonate of soda, 314. 

chalk, 317. 

cubeb, 266. 

ginger, 177. 

ipecacuanha, 205. 

liquorice and opium, 49. 

magnesia, 315. 

subcarbonate of iron, 125. 
Trochisci, 28. 

ferri subcarbonatis, 125. 

glycyrrizas et opii, 49. 
Troy weight, 34. 
Tulip-tree, 109. 

bark, 109. 
Turkey gum, 333. 

opium, 44. 

rhubarb, 222. 
Turner's cerate, 134. 
Turpentine, 260. 

American, 260. 

Bordeaux, 260. 

Canada, 260, 261. 

Chian, 260. 

Venice, 260. 

white, 260. 
Turpeth mineral, 287. 

Ulcers, application of medicines to, 

41. 
Ulmus fulva, 33V. 
Unguenta, 33. 
Unguentum adipis, 33, 347. 
antimonii, 190, 328. 
belladonnae, 57 
cantharidis, 327. 
hydrargyri, 280. 

ammoniati, 287. 
nitratis, 288. 
oxidi rubri, 282. 
iodinii, 291. 
Unguentum iodinii compositum, 291. 
picis liquidae, 263. 
plumbi carbonatis, 162, 
tabaci, 62. 



Valerian, 91. 
Valeriana, 91. 

officinalis, 91. 
Valerianate of ammonia, 92. 

iron, 131. 

quinia, 118. 

zinc, 135. 



Valerianic acid, 91. 

Vallet's ferruginous pills, 125. 

Vanilla, 182. 

aromatica, 182. 
Vapors, 27, 34. 

Veins, injection of medicines into, 41. 
Vegetable acids, 105. 

astringents, 142, 143. 

tonics, 98. 
Venesection, 17. 
Vera Cruz sarsaparilla, 240. 
Veratria, 187. 
Veratroidia, 185. 
Veratrum album, 186. 

sabadilla, 187. 

viride, 185. 
Verdigris, 133. 
Vermilion, 288. 
Vesicants, 164, 322. 
Vesicating taffetas, 327. 
Vienna paste, 330. 
Vina, 31. 
Vinegar, 195. 

of colchicum, 250. 

lobelia, 64. 

opium, 51. 

squill, 247. 
Vinegars, 26, 31. 
Vinum, 166. 

antimonii, 190. 

ergotse, 203. 

ipecacuanha?, 205. 

opii, 51. 

Portense, 166. 

tabaci, 62. 

Xericum, 166. 
Virgin scammony, 232. 
Virginia snakeroot, 105. 
Viridia, 185. 
Voltaic electricity, 23. 
Volatile alkali, 168. 

liniment, 168, 320. 

oils, 170. 

Warming plaster, 320. 
Warner's gout cordial, 223. 
Washed sulphur, 214. 
Water avens, 122. 

of ammonia, 168, 328. 
stronger, 167, 328. 



Waters, medicated, 26, 

Wax, 347. 

Weights and measures, 

Whisky, 167. 

White arsenic, 297. 

ginger, 176. 

hellebore, 186. 

lead, 162. 

mustard. 318. 



29. 



31. 



INDEX. 



385 



White oak bark, 148. 
pepper 172. 
precipitate, 287. 
vitriol, 133. 
wax, 347. 
Wild carrot, 253. 

chamomile, 10 7-. 
cherry bark, 121. 
valerian, 91. 
AVillow, 120. 
Wine, 166. 

of aloes, 226. 
antimony, 190. 
colchicum root, 250. 

seed, 250. 
ergot, 203. 
ipecacuanha, 205. 
measure, 35. 
opium, 51. 
rhubarb, 223. 
tobacco, 62. 
white hellebore, 186. 
Wineglass, 35. 
Wines, 26, 31. 
Wine-whey, 166. 
Wintergreen, 151. 
Wistar's cough lozenges, 49. 
Wolfsbane, 66. 
Woody nightshade, 70. 
Woorali, 78. 
Woorara, 78. 
Woorari, 78. 
Wormseed, 355. 



Wormwood, 109. 
Wort, 345. 

Wounds, application of medicines 
to, 41. 

Xanthorriza, 104 
apiifolia, 104. 

Yarrow, 111. 
Yeast, 350. 
Yellow bark, 112. 

gentian, 101. 

jasmine, 187. 

lady's slipper, 92. 

pine, 260. 

root, 104, 254. 

sulphate of mercury, 287. 

wash, 282. 

wax, 347. 
Young's scheme for doses, 35. 

Zinc, preparations of, 133. 
Zinci acetas, 133. 

carbonas prsecipitata, 134. 

chloridum, 134, 330. 

iodidum, 134. 

oxidum, 133. 

prseparata, 133. 

sulphas, 133. 

valerianas, 135. 
Zingiber, 176. 

officinale, 176. 



25 



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AlthaUS' Medical Electricity. A New and Very Much 

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A Theoretical and Practical Treatise, and its Use in the Treatment of 
Paralysis, Neuralgia, and other Diseases. By Julius Alt ha is. 
M. D., Member of the Royal College of Physicians, &c. Second 
Edition, revised, enlarged, and for the most part rewritten. In One 
Volume Octavo, with a Lithographic Plate and nixty-two Illustrations 
on Wood Price, ^ )J{J 



LINDSAY AND BLAKISTON'S PUBLICATIONS. 

PEOF. BYFOED'S NEW EDITION 

OF 

The Practice of Medicine and Surgery, 

Applied to the Diseases and Accidents Incident to Women. By W. H. 
Byford, A. M., M. D., Professor of Obstetrics and Diseases of Women 
and Children in the Chicago Medical College, &c, &c. The Second 
Edition, revised and enlarged, with additional illustrations. One 
volume octavo. 

Bound in Cloth. Price, .... . $5.00 

" Leather, 6.00 

The rapid sale of the first edition of this book, which was exhausted in a little more 
than a year, has enabled the author to carefully revise the whole work, add many 
improvements, and to make a large addition of new matter, without, however, materially 
increasing the size of the volume. 

" Professor Byford's book may safely be said to fill a gap in a most important department of 
the healing art. The treatise is as complete a one as the present state of our science will admit 
of being written, and not only gives us the cases in which the knife is to be called into requisi- 
tion, but fully discusses all those uterine ailments which are to be benefited by medical treat- 
ment. In this latter respect, the work has a peculiar value to every general practitioner. The 
author speaks from experience, evidently with the sole object of presenting his subject in a 
strictly impartial and scientific light. The present edition is much enlarged in point of matter 
contained in the work, although the volume itself is very little, if any, increased in bulk. We 
commend it to the diligent study of every practitioner and student, as a work calculated to 
inculcate sound principles, and lead to enlightened practice." — X. Y. Mtd. Record. 

"This work treats well-nigh all the diseases incident to women, diseases and accidents of 
the vulva and perineum, stone in the bladder, inflammation of the vagina, menstruation and 
its disorders, the uterus and its ailments, ovarian tumors, diseases of the mammae, puerperal 
convulsions, phlegmasia alba dolens, puerperal fever, Ac. Its scope is thus of the most 
extended character, yet the observations are concise, but convey much practical information." — 
London Lancet. 

BYFORD ON THE UTERUS.— PREPARING. 

A New, Enlarged, and Illustrated Edition, 

On the Chronic Inflammation and Displace- 
ments of the Unimpregnated Uterus. 

A New, Enlarged, and Thoroughly Revised Edition, with Illustrations. 
One Volume. Octavo. 

Biddle'S Materia MediCa. The Third Edition Enlarged. 

For the Use of Students. A New Enlarged Edition. With Illustrations. 
By J. B. Biddle, M. D., Professor of Materia Medica and Therapeutics 
in the Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, &c, &c. Octavo. $4.00 

This is a thoroughly revised and enlarged edition of Prof. Biddle's work on Materia 
Medica. It is designed to present the leading facts and principles usually comprised 
under this head, as set forth by the standard authorities, and to fill a vacuum which 
seems to exist in the want of an elementary work on the subject. The larger works 
usually recommended as Text-Books in our Medical Schools are too voluminous for 
convenient use. This work will be found to contain, in a condensed form, all that is. 
most valuable, and will supply students with a reliable guide to the courses of lectures 
in Materia Medica, as delivered at the Tarious Medical Schools in the United States 



LINDSAY AND BLAKISTON'S PUBLICATIONS. 



Beasley's Book of Prescriptions. 

A NEW, REVISED, AND ENLARGED EDITION. 

Containing 3000 Prescriptions, collected from the Practice of tlie most 
Eminent Physicians and Surgeons — English, French, and American ; 
comprising also a Compendious History of the Materia Medica, Lists of 
the Doses of all Officinal and Established Preparations, and an Index of 
Diseases and tlieir Remedies. By Henry Beasley. Second American 
from the last London Edition. Octavo. . . . . $4.00 

" The editor, carefully selecting from the mass of materials at his disposal, has compiled a volume, in which 
both physician and druggist, prescriber and compounder, may find, under the head of each remedy, the man- 
ner in which that remedy may be most effectively administered, or combined with other medicines in the 
treatment of various diseases. The alphabetical arrangement adopted renders this easy; and the value of the 
volume is still further enhanced by the short account given-of each medicine, and the lists of doses of its 
several preparations. It is really a most useful and important publication, and, from the great aid which il 
is capable of affording in prescribing, should be in the possession of every medical practitioner. Amongst 
other advantages is, that, by giving the prescriptions of some of the most able and successful practitioners of 
the day, it affords an insight into the methods of treatment pursued by them, and of the remedies which they 
chiefly employed in the treatment of different diseases." — Lancet. 

Beasley's Druggists' General Receipt Book. 

SIXTH AMERICAN EDITION, REVISED AND IMPROVED. 

Comprising a copious Veterinary Formulary, numerous Receipts of Patent 
and Proprietary Medicines, Druggists' Nostrums, etc.; Perfumery and 
Cosmetics, Beverages, Dietetic Articles and Condiments, Trade Chemicals, 
Scientific Processes, and an Appendix of Useful Tables, by Henry 
Beasley, Author of the Booh of Prescriptions, etc., etc. Sixth American 
from the Last London Edition. Octavo $3.50 

"This is one of the class of books that is indispensable to every Druggist and Pharmaceutist as a book of 
reference for such information as is wanted, not contained in works used in the regular line of his business, 
and we can recommend it as one of the best of the kind." — American Druggists' Circular. 

Barth & Roger's Manual of Auscultation and 
Percussion. 

A new American Translation from the Sixth French Edition. 16mo. $1.25. 

« This is one of the most useful and practical manuals of its sort that has ever yet appeared and we can- 
not too strongly recommend it to every student of medicine. It is sufficiently comprehensive vnthou iboing 
lengthy, and the principles, which are eminently sound, can easily be mustered and understood. -Medical 
Record. 

Bouchardat's Annual Abstract 

Of Therapeutics, Materia Medica, Pharmacy, and Toxicology, 
for 1867, with an Original Memoir of Gout, Gravel, Urinary Cal- 
culi, &c. ' By A. Bouchardat, Professor of Hygiene to the Faculty 
of Medicine, Paris, &c. Translated and Edited by M. J. De Rosset 
M.D., Adjunct to the Professor of Chemistry in the University of 
Maryland. In one Volume. Price, in cloth, . • l 1 -^- 



LINDSAY AND BLAKT3T0NS PUBLICATIONS. 



Andrews' Hand-Book of the Practice of 

Medicine. In Preparation. 

Bull on the Maternal Management of Chil- 
dren in Health and Disease. 

A New and Improved Edition. By Thomas Bull, M. D., Member of the 
Royal College of Physicians. 12nio $1.25 

Reports on the Progress of Medicine, Surgery, 
and the Allied Sciences, containing: 

1. Report on Physiology, by Henry Power, F.R.C.S., M.B., Lond. 

2. Report on Practical Medicine, by Francis Edmund Anstie, M.D., etc. 

3. Report on Surgery, by T. Holmes, Esq., M.A., F.R.C.S., etc. 

4. Report on Ophthalmic Medicine and Surgery, by Tbomas Windsor, M.D. 

5. Report on Midwifery and the Diseases of Women and Children, by R. Barnes, 
M.D., F.R.C.P. 

6. Report on Medical Jurisprudence, by C. Hilton Fagge, M.D., F.R.C.P. 

7. Report on Materia Medica and General Therapeutics, by C. Hilton Fagge, M.D., 
F.R.C.P. 

8. Report on Public Health, by C. Hilton Fagge, M.D., etc. 

In One Yolume, handsomely bound in cloth, Price, . . $2 00 

"This volume, published under the auspices of the New Sydenham Society, now makes its welcome appear- 
ance, at a low price, in the United States. It is the most carefully prepared retrospect with which we are 
acquainted. Each department is in charge of a gentleman of reputation, and everything is done to sum. 
marize, in a very readable way, all the more important advances of medicine over the globe. It is hand- 
somely bound and elegantly printed." — N. Y. Medical Record. 

Birch On Constipation. From the Third London Edition. 

CONSTIPATED BOWELS; the various Causes and the Different 

Means of Cure. By S. B. Birch, M. D., Member of the Royal College 

of Physicians of London, &c. The Third Edition. One volume, 16mo. 

Price, $1.00 



Braithwaite's Epitome of the Retrospect of 
Practical Medicine and Surgery. 

Two large Octavo Volumes of 900 pages each, . . . $10.00 

Braithwaite's Retrospect of Practical Medi- 
cine and Surgery. 

"The cream of medical literature." 

Published half-yearly, in January and July, at $2.50 per annum, if paid in 
advance; or $1.50 for single parts. 



LINDSAY AND BLAKISTON'S PUBLICATIONS. 



British and Foreign Medico-Chirurgical Re- 
view, and Quarterly Journal of Practical 
Medicine and Surgery. 

Published in London on the 1st of January, April, July, and October, at 
6 shillings per number, or 24 shillings per annum, and furnished in tliis 
country at $10.00 per annum; being much less than the present cost of 
importation of English books. Containing Analytical and Critical Re- 
views, a Bibliographical Record, Original Communications, and a Chron- 
icle of Medical Science, chiefly Foreign and Contemporary. 

This is considered the leading Medical Review in the English language. It is every- 
where looked upon as high authority. It presents in its pages a large amount of valu- 
able and interesting matter, and will post the physician who reads it, fully up to the 
present day in medical literature. 

Chambers's Lectures on the Renewal of Life. 

A New American from the Fourth London Edition. 

Lectures chiefly clinical, illustrative of a Restorative System of Medicine. 
By Tnos. K. Ch ambers, M. D., Physician to St. Mary's Hospital. 
Author of " The Indigestions," &c, &c. Octavo, . . $5.00 

"The medical profession in this country are under obligations to the American publishers 
for this reprint of Dr. Chambers' Lectures — a work whose lime is forever, everywhere in its 
place, admirable in tone, full of valuable instructions and practical teachings, and written in 
clear, compact, and often epigrammatic English. We can offer but a brief notice of this intrin- 
sically good book, which is certain of finding a wide circle of readers, and we should hope a 
place in every medical library." — New York Medical Journal. 

"This work is of the highest merit, written in a clear, masterly style, and devoid of technicalities. It is 
■imply what it professes to be, Lectures Clinical, delivered from cases observed at the bedside; therefore 
more valuable as enunciating the views and experiences of a practical niiud uided by actual observation. 

They are of deep interest, and replete with facts having a practical bearing, and will well repay perusal 

We can recommend Dr. Chambers' book freely and with confidence, as the work of a great mind practical is 
fta bearing, and simple to the understanding of all."— Canada Medical Journal. 

Chew on Medical Education. 

A Course of Lectures on the Proper Method of Studying Medicine. By 
Samuel Chew, M.D., Professor of the Practice and Principles of 
Medicine and of Clinical Medicine in the University of Maryland. 
12mo *l-°° 

-The topics discussed in this volume are of books-of time to be devoted to study -and the marmer-of 
the order of medical studies -of the taking of notes-of clinical instruction -dissections- auscultation- 
medical vchools, &c. . _ 

« Or. Chew whs an eminent member of the medical profession, and a well-anown teacher of medicine. I 
was. therefore, well fitted for the judicious performance of this task, upon which he seems to have entered 
«ith interest and pleasure. It is a well-timed book, and will serve as a most excellent manual forthe 
as well as a refreshing and suggestive one to the practitioner."— Lancet and Obnervet . 
2 



LINDSAY AND BLAKISTON T S PUBLICATIONS. 



Oazeaux's Great Work on Obstetrics. 

The Fifth American Edition. 175 Illustrations. 

A Theoretical and Practical Treatise on Midwifery. Including the Dis- 
eases of Pregnancy and Parturition, and the attention required by the 
Child from its Birth to the Period of Weaning. By P. Cazeaux, 
Member of the Imperial Academy of Medicine, Adjunct Professor in 
the Faculty of Medicine of Paris, &c, &c. Revised and annotated 
by S. Tarnier. Adjunct Professor to the Faculty of Medicine, Paris, 
&c, ' &c. Translated by W. R. Bullock, M. D. With new Litho- 
graphic and other Illustrations on Wood. One volume Royal Octavo, 
of over 1100 pages. 

Price, bound in Cloth, Bevelled Boards, . . . . $6.50 
Leather, . . . . . . 7.50 

"Written expressly for the use of students of medicine, and those of midwifery especially, its teachings are 
plain and explicit, presenting a condensed summary of the leading principles established by the maste.s of 
tfce obstetric art, and 6uch c!ear, practical directions for the management of the pregnant, pai turient, and 
puei ^eral states, as have been sanctioned by the most authoritative practitioners, and confirmed by the 
authors own experience. Collecting his materials from the writings of the entire body of antecedent writers, 
carefully testing their correctness and value by his own daily experience, and rejecting all such as were falsi- 
fied by the numerous cases brought under his own immediate observation, he has formed out of them a body 
of doctrine, and a system of practical rules, which he illustrates and enforces in the clearest and most simple 
manner possible." — Examiner. 

-) 

Caiiniff 's Manual of the Principles of Surgery. 

Based on Pathology, for Students, by Wm. Canniff, Licentiate of the 
Medical Board of Upper Canada; M.D. of the University of New 
York ; M.B. C.S. of England ; formerly House Surgeon to the Seamen' % 
Hospital, New York; late Professor of General Pathology and the 
Principles and Practice of Surgery, University Victoria College. C. W. 
Octavo $4.50 

'•This manual is evidently the production of a man who is well informed on his subject, and who moreover 
has had experience as a teacher and as a practitioner. lie has profited by the study of the best authors on 
the principles of surgery, tested practically their 'doctrines, and has presented his own views, well arranged 
and clearly expressed, for the advantage of others." — American Journal of Med. Science. 

CieavelancTs Pronouncing Medical Lexicon. 

A NEW AND IMPROVED EDITION (THE ELEVENTH). 

Containing the Correct Pronunciation and Definition of most of the Terms 
used by Speakers and Writers of Medicine and the Collateral Sciences. 
By C. H. Cleaveland, M.D., Member of the American Medical Associa* 
Hon, etc., etc. A small Pocket Volume $1.25 

This little work is both brief and comprehensive ; it is not only a Lexicon of all the 
words in common use in Medicine, but it is also a Pronouncing Dictionary, a feature 
of great value to Medical Students. To the Dispenser it will prove an excellent aid, 
and also to the Pharmaceutical Student. This edition contains a List of the Abbrevia- 
tions used in Prescriptions, together with their meaning ; and also of Poisons and their 
Antidotes : two valuable additions. It has received strong commendation both from the 
Medical Press and from the profession. 



LINDSAY AND BLaKISTON's PUBLICATIONS. 



Cohen on Inhalation. 

Its Therapeutics and Practice. A Treatise on the Inhalation of Gases, 
Vapors, Nebulized Fluids, and Powders; including a Description of 
the Apparatus employed, and a Record of Numerous Experiments, 
Physiological and Pathological; with Cases and Illustrations. T.y I. 

Sous Cohen, M.D. 12mo. Price, $2 60 

"We recognize in this book the work of a persevering Physician who has faithfully 
studied his subject, and added to its literature much that is useful from his own expe- 
rience. It treats respectively of the inhalations of nebulized fluids; of medicated 
gases, and vapors, and of powders. Dr. Cohen has given us briefly and clearly .. bat- 
ever is valuable in relation to the. insufflation of powders in respiratory affectionB, with 
the experimental proofs and pathological evidence of their penetration into the bron- 
chial tubes and lung tissues." — American Journal of Medical Science, July, 1808. 

Prof. Carson's University of Pennsylvania. 

A History of the Medical Department of the University of Pennsylvania, 
from its Foundation in 1765: With Sketches of the Lives of Deceased 
Professors. By Joseph Carson, M.D., Professor of Materia Medica 
and Pharmacy in the University of Pennsylvania ; Member of the 
American Philosophical Society, etc. In one volume octavo. Cloth. 
Price, . $2 00 

"The history of the University of Pennsylvania has a national as well as a local 
interest, from the early date of its origination, and the connection with it of men of 
illustrious public reputation, such as Drs. Franklin, Rush, Physick, Gibson, Dewees, 
Chapman, Wood, &c, &c. 

"For fidelity and carefulness of statement and maintenance of the dignity of thfe 
Institution, as well as for skill in literary execution, the task of extending and con- 
tinuing this record could have been confided to no better hands than those of Professor 
Carson. 

"For the labor and love which he has spent in preparing this most interesting and 
valuable work, Prof. Carson has earned the gratitude of the alumni of the University, 
and of all others interested in medical education in this country." — American Journal 
of Medical Science. 

"ThVrm An tllP TCvP I A New Edition, thoroughly Revised, and a 
JJlXOll Oil llie Jl/ye. } great portion Re-written. 

A Guide to the Practical Study of Diseases of the Eye, with an Outline 
of their Medical and Operative Treatment, with Test Types and Illus- 
trations. By James Dixon, F.R C.S., Surgeon to the Royal London 
Ophthalmic Hospital, &c, &c. In one volume. Price, . $2 50 
"Mr. Dixon's book is essentially a practical one, written by an observant author, 
who brings to his special subject a sound knowledge of general Medicine and Surgery." 
— Dublin Quarterly. 

"Our object is not to review, but to recommend this work to students, with tlio confi- 
dent assurance that they will rarely be disappointed in their appeals to it ns a reliable 
guide to the practical study of the Diseases of the Eye." — A merican Medical Journal. 

"We have taken great pleasure in a careful perusal of this book, which, both in 
and matter, is unsurpassed in any language It embraces quite a wide range of topics, 
and furnishes a very valuable practical guide in the medical and surgical treatment 
of diseases of the eye." — Buffalo Medical Journal. 



.IKDSAY AND BLAKISTON'S PUBLICATIONS. 



Durkee on Gonorrhoea and Syphilis. 

The Fifth Edition, Revised and Enlarged, with Portraits and Colored 

Illustrations. 

A Treatise on Gonorrhoea and Syphilis. By Silas Durkee, M.D., Fel- 
low of the Massachusetts Medical Society, &c, &c. A New and Revised 
Edition, with Eight Colored Illustrations. Octavo. . . $5.00 

This work of Dr. Durkee's has received the unqualified approval 
of the Medical Press and the Profession both in this country and in 
Europe. The author has devoted himself especially to the treatment of 
this class of diseases, and his 25 or 30 years experience in doing so is 
here recorded. No one reading his work can fail in receiving very 
valuable information from it. 

" It is the work of a practical man, the subject is treated in a plain, shrewd manner. The 
book is a good one, and the therapeutics are laid down with discrimination." — London Medical 
Times and Gazette. 

" Dr. Durkee's production is one of those, the perusal of which impresses the reader in favor of the author. 
The general tone, the thorough honesty everywhere evinced, the philanthropic spirit observable in many pas- 
sages, and the energetic advocacy of professional rectitude, speak highly of the moral excellence of the 
writer; nor is the reader less attracted by the skill with which the book is arranged, the manner in which 
the facts are cited, the clever way in which the author's experience is brought in, and the lucidity of the 
reasoning, the frequent and extremely fair allusions to the labors of others, and the care with which the the- 
rapeutics of venereal complaints are treated." — Lancet. 

Fuller on Rheumatism, Rheumatic Gout, and 
Sciatica, a new edition preparing. 

Their Pathology, Symptoms, and Treatment. By Henry William 
Fuller, M.D., Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians, London; 
Physician to St. George's Hospital, etc. From the last London Edition. 
Octavo. 

Graves' Clinical Lectures on the Practice of 

Medicine. By Robert James Graves, M.D., F.R.S., Professor 
of the Institutes of Medicine in the School of Physic in Ireland. Edited 
by J. Moore Meligan, M.D. From the Second Revised and Enlarged 
Edition. Complete in One Volume. Octavo. Price, . . $6.00 

Goff's Combined Day-Book, Ledger, and Daily 

Register of Patients, combining not only the Accuracy and Essential 
Points of a regular Day-Book and Ledger System, without any of the 
labor and responsibility, but is also a Daily Register of Patients, &c, &c. 
A large Quarto Volume, strongly bound in half-russia. Price, $12.00 
the advantages of this book are — The account of a whole family for an entire year can 
be kept in a very small space. (See Mitchell's account.) No transfer of accounts 
from one book to another, or from one part of the book to another. No protracted 
search for an account when wanted. Shows the exact state of an account at any 
moment. 



LINDSAY AND BLAKISTON T S PUBLICATIONS. 

Gross' American Medical Biography of the 
Nineteenth Century. 

Edited by Samuel D. Gross, M.D., Professor of Surgery in the Jefferson 
Medical College, Philadelphia, &c, &c. With a Portrait of Benjamin 
Rush, M.D. Octavo 13.50 

Greenhow on Bronchitis, especially as connected ww 

Gout, Emphysema, and Diseases of the Heart. By E. Headlam Green 
how M.D., Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians, &c, &c. 

Price, $2.00 

"In vivid pictures of the sort of cases which a practitioner encounters in his daily walks, and in example 
cf the way in which a student ought to turn them over in his mind and make them tools for self-improve- 
ment, we have rarely seen a volume richer." — Brit, and For. tkdico-Chirurg. Review. 

Garratf s (Alfred C.) Guide for Using Medical 
Batteries. 

Showing the most approved Apparatus, Methods, and Rules for the Medical 
Employment of Electricity in the Treatment of Nervous Diseases, &c.,&c. 
With numerous Illustrations. One Volume, octavo. . . $2.00 

« The large work on the same subject, and by the same author, is pretty well known to the Profession but 
"I Z vTriou, mode, of applioo.ioa ,'o. therapentlo purposes." -to.c«< and Observer. 

Hewitt on the Diseases of Women. 

SECOND EDITION, REWRITTEN AND ENLARGED. 

The Diagnosis and Treatment of Diseases of **"j^£*&J5 
Diaanosis of Pregnancy. Founded on a Course of Lectures dehoered 
Ts Mary's Hospital Medical School. By Graily Hewitt MB. 
lond MR C P Physician to the British Lying-in Hospital ; Leo- 
^urel'on Midwifery and Diseases of Women and Children at S. Marf» 
nltpZl Medial School; Honorary Secretary to the Obstetrical So- 
ciety of London, &c. With a neto Series of Illustrations. 
Price, in cloth, $5.00 ; in leather, $6.00. 

Hillier's Clinical Treatise on the Diseases of 

Children. By Thomas Hiw M.D., Phytic** to the Hospital 
for Sick Children, and to University College Hospital, &c, *^JJJ 

»nd sound practice." — London Lancet. 



LINDSAY AND BLAKISTON T S PUBLICATIONS. 

Headland on the Action of Medicines in the 
System. 

By F. W. Headland, M.D., Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians . 
&e., &c. Sixth American from the Fourth London Edition. Revised 
and enlarged. One Volume, octavo $3.00 

Dr. Headland's work has been out of print in this country nearly two years, await- 
ing the revipions of the author, which now appear in this edition. It gives the onl) 
scientific and satisfactory view of the action of medicine; and this not in the way of 
idle speculation, but by demonstration and experiments, and inferences almost as in- 
disputable as demonstrations. It is truly a great scientific work in a small compass, 
and deserves to be the handbook of every lover of the Profession. It has received the 
most unqualified approbation of the Medical Press, both in this country and in Europe, 
and is pronounced by them to be the most original and practically useful work that has 
been published for many years. 

Hille's Pocket Anatomist. 

Being a Complete Description of the Anatomy of the Human Body ; for the 
Use of Students. By M. W. IIilles, formerly Lecturer on Anatomy and 
Physiology at the Westminster Hospital School of Medicine, 

Price, in cloth, $1.00 

" in Pocket-book form, 1.25 

Heath on the Injuries and Diseases of the Jaws. 

The Jacksonian Prize Essay of the Royal College of Surgeons of Eng- 
land, 1867. By Christopher Heath, F.R. C S., Assistant Surgeon to 
University College Hospital, and Teacher of Operative Surgery in Uni- 
versity College. Containing over 150 Illustrations. Octavo. Price, $6.00 

Hodge on Foeticide, or Criminal Abortion. 

By Hugh L. Hodge, M.D., Emeritus Professor in the University of 
Pennsylvania. A Small Pocket Volume. Price in paper covers, 30 

flexible cloth, 50 

This little book is intended to place in the hands of professional men and others the means of answering 
latisfajtorily and intelligently any inquiries that may be made of them in connection with this important 
lubject. 

Holmes' Surgical Diseases of Infancy and 

C hlldllOOd. By J. Holmes, M.A., Surgeon to the Hospital fo* 
SijJc Children, &c. Second Edition. Revised and Enlarged. Octavo. 

Price, $9.00 

Elufeland's Art of Prolonging Life. Edited b V 

Erasmus Wilson, M.D., F R.S. Author of "A System of Human 
Anatomy,'' "Diseases of the Skin," &c, &c. 12mo. Cloth. $1.25 



LINDSAY AND JiLAKISTON'S PUBLICATIONS. 



Mackenzie on the Laryngoscope, Diseases 
of the Throat, &c. Second Edition. 

The Use of the Laryngoscope in Disease, of the Th roaf. With additions 
and an Essay on Hoarseness, Loss of Voice, and Striduloua Breathing 
m relation to Nervo-Muscular affections of the Larynx, by Moreu 
Mackenzie, M.D., Physician to the Hospital for Diseases of the Throat, 
&c, &c. Second Edition, with additions, and a Chapter on the Nasal 
Passages, by J. Sous Cohen, M.D., Author of " Inhalation, Its Thera- 
peutics and Practice," &c. Illustrated by two lithographic plates, and 
51 engravings on wood. Octavo. Price, .... $3.00 

" VHiile laryngoscopy was in its infancy. and before it had begun to engage to any extent the attention of 
Che Profession uit was studied with the greatest care and enthusiasm by th? author of "hTa treatte AW 
sonal riend ol Czermaks. who has done more than any other continental phvs , a to i •-.. <c he lirSS- 
scope intu practice, he has profited by the opp .rtunities which he thus poaSed of I, eo „ in- ac „ a u t. i wah 
the anatomy and iqorlnd anatomy of the larynx. But he bas do.re lunch more than this. As w 1 e seen by 
a perusal of this treat.se, he has modified the instruments at Resent in use for the ex , , n t n of the 
te^S™? i ; therS f °i' ^P"* 1 ^ Furp. ,es. Those who are anxious to study the iiwU of 
S hi f V H h t he K'°K d t 0t T lUS th t ^W^^ Jo better than purchase the treatise beforeue, as it 
is by far the best wtuch has been published, and is thozo^hay to be relied upon.'-Gla.^nc Medical Journal. 

Morris on the Pathology and Therapeutics 
of Scarlet Fever. 

By Casper Morris, M.D., Fellow of the College of Physician* of Phila- 
delphia, &c, &e. A New Enlarged Edition. Octavo. . 61.50 

Meigs and Pepper's Practical Treatise on 
the Diseases of Children. 

Fourth Edition, thoroughly Kavised and greatly Enlarged. 

By J. Forsyth Meigs, M. D., Fellow of the College of Physicians of 

Philadelphia, &c, &c.,and William Pepper, M D., Physician to the 

Philadelphia Hospital, &c, &c, forming a Royal Octavo Volume of 

over 900 pages. Price, bound in Cloth, . . . 06.00 

Leather, . . . 7.00 

Dr. Meigs' work has been out of print for some years. The rapid sale of the three previous editions, and the 
great demand for a new edition, is sufficient evidence of its great popularity: while the very large practice 
of many years' standing of the author in the speciality Of ''Diseases of Children*' imparts to it a value un- 
equalled, probably, by any other work on the same subject now before the Profession. This present edition ha* 
been almost entirely rewritten and rearranged, and no effort or labor has been spared by either Drs. Meigs 
->r Pepper, to make it represent fully in its most advanced state the present condition of Medicine as appliid 
to Children's Diseases. 

Murphy's Review of Chemistry for Students. 

Adapted to tha Courses as Taught in the Principal Medical Schools in the 
United States. By John G. Murphy, M.D. In One Volume. $1.25. 

"This is an exceedingly well-arranged and convenient Manual. It pive9 tho most important facts and 
principles of Chemistry in a clear and very concise manner, so as to subserre most admirably the object foe 
vhich it was designed." — North Western Medical and Surgical Journal. 



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Maxson's Practice of Medicine, 

A New Text-Booh on the Practice of Medicine. By Edwin R. Maxson, 
M.D., formerly Lecturer on the Institutes and Practice of Medicine in the 
Geneva Medical College. In One Volume. Royal 8vo. . $4.00 

" Jndging from his work, he must be a correct observer, of plain, strong common sense, having the pro- 
cess and perfection of the healing art. and the amelioration of suffering, earnestly at heart, free from pr»- 
frndice, and open to conviction. The fact of employing, and thereupon recommending valuable remedial 
agents, as yet, for various reasons, uuder the ban, and misunderstood by many physicians, is an honor to 
feim, and gives a certain additional value to his book." — American Medical MimtLly. 

Mendenhall's Medical Student's Vade Mecum. 

A Compendium of Anatomy, Physiology, Chemistry, The Practice of Medi- 
cine, Surgery, Obstetrics, Diseases of the Skin, Materia Medica, Phar- 
macy, Poisons, &c, &c. By George Mendeniiall, M.D., Professor of 
Obstetrics in the Medical College of Ohio, Member of the American 
Medical Association, d*c, &c. The Eighth Edition, Revised and En- 
larged ; with 224 Illustrations $2.50 

"This volume puts the student in possession of a condensed medical library. Its accuracy is a strong 
recommendation, while the portability of a volume containing the whole circle of medical science is a matter 
that will have weight with those for whose service the l>ook was originally designed. The work is offered, 
too, extremely cheap, and will be found a valuable assistant even to a well-informed practitioner of any 
branch of medicine." — Boston Medical and Surgical Journal 

Paget's Lectures on Surgical Pathology. 

Delivered at the Royal College of Surgeons of England, by James Paget, 
F.R.S., Surgeon to Bartholomew and Christ's Hospital, &c, &c. The 
Third American from the Second London Edition, Edited and Revised 
by William Turner, M.B., Lond. Senior Demonstrator of Anatomy in 
the University of Edinburgh, &c, &c. In One Volume, Royal Octavo; 
with Numerous Illustrations. 

Price, in bevelled cloth, . . . . . . $6.00 

" in leather, 7.00 

Pennsylvania Hospital Reports. Edited by a com- 
mittee of the Hospital Staff, J. M DaCosta, M.D., and William Hunt, 
M.D. Vols. 1 and 2, for 1868 and 1869, each volume containing upwards 
of Twenty Original Articles, by former and present Members of the Staff, 
now eminent in the Profession, with Lithographic and other Illustrations. 

Price per volume, $4.00 

At last, however, the work has been commenced, the Philadelphia Physicians being 
the first to occupy this field of usefulness, having issued the first volume of the Reports 
of the above hospital last year, and the second volume ou January 1st, 1869. The first 
Reports were so favorably received on both sides of the Atlantic, that it is hardly 
necessary to speak for this volume the universal welcome of which it is deserving. We 
cannot close our remarks without stating that the papers are all valuable contributiona 
to the literature of medicine, reflecting great credit upon their authors, and the work 
is one of which the Pennsylvania Hospital may well be proud. It will do much toward 
elevating the profession of this country in the estimation of their foreign brethren." 

— American Journal of Obstetrics, May, 1869. 



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Pereira's Physician's Prescription Book. 

Containing Lists of Terms, Phrases, Contractions, and Abbreviations, used 
in Prescriptions, with Explanatory Notes, the Grammatical Constructions 
of Prescriptions, Pules for the Pronunciation of Pharmaceutical Terms, 
A Prosodiacal Vocabulary of the Names of Drugs, etc., and a series of 
Abbreviated Prescriptions illustrating the use of the preceding terms, etc.; 
to which is added a Key, containing the Prescriptions in an unabbreviated 
Form, with a Literal Translation, intended for the use of Medical and 
Pharmaceutical Students. By Jonathan Pereira, M.D., F.R.S., etc. 
From the Fourteenth London Edition. 

Price, in cloth, 61.25 

" in leather, with Tucks and Pocket, . . . 1.50 

This little work has passed through fourteen editions in London and several in this 
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and many additions made to it. Its great value is proven both by its large sale and 
the many favorable notices of it in the Medical Press. 



Phj 



siciailS Visiting List. Published annually. 



SIZES AND PHICE. 

For 25 Patients weekly. Tucks, pockets, and pencil, $1 00 

50 " " " " " 1 ^5 

75 <« " " " " 1 50 

100 " " " " " 2 00 

50 « "^M^SEr} " 25 ° 

100 « '^vols.jj-f/- 6 -} - 3 00 

Also, AN INTERLEAVED EDITION, 

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50 ° " " MUM 1 <5 

50 « " 2vols. {j££Jr}« " 30 ° 

Prince's Orthopedic Surgery. 

Orthopedics : A Systematic Work vpon the Prevention and Cure of 
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Octavo * 3 - 00 

-This is a good book, upon an important practical subject; carefully written, abundantly illustrated and 
webi p ntel Tt goes over the whole ground of deformity of all degrees-from c eft-p ..at.- and clnb*ot£ 
Tpinal u vatureslnd ununited fractures. It appears, moreover, to be an or gnud book so ^rasoue chiefly 
or compilation can be so. Such a book was wanted, and it deserves success." - Med. * Surg. Reporter. 

Prince's Plastic Surgery. 

A New Classification and a Brief Exposition of Plastic Surgery. By 
David Prince, M.D. In One Volume Octavo. With Numerous Mux- 

TT» • SI. DO 

{rations. Price, 

2 



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room to theorize, which his subject afforded, he has not failed to bring forward strong and formidable facts to 
prove the deductions he attempts to draw. We recommend it to the notice of our readers as a work that will 
throw much light upon the Physiology and Pathology of the Nervous System." — Canada Medical Journal 

Robertson's Manual on Extracting Teeth. 

Founded on the Anatomy of the Parts involved in the Operation; the Kinds 
and Proper Construction of the Instruments to be used; the Accidents 
liable to occur from the : Operation, and the Proper Remedies to retrieve 
such Accidents. By Abraham Robertson, D.D.S., M.D., Author of 
"Prize Essay on Extracting Teeth,'' &c. In One Volume, with Illustra- 
tions. Second Edition. Revised and Improved. . . $1.50 

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especially so to the military surgeon, who, in times like the present, is called upon so frequently to perform 
the operation of extracting teeth." — Dental. Cosmos. 

Ranking s Half-yearly Abstract of the Medi- 
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Renouard's History of Medicine, 

History of Medicine from its origin to the Nineteenth Century. With an 
Appendix containing a Philosophical and Historical Review of Medi- 
cine to the present time. By P. Y. Renouard, M. D. Translated 
from the French by Cornelius G. Comegys, M. D., Professor of the 
Institutes of Medicine in the Medical College of Ohio, etc. In One 
Volume Octavo. Price, $4.00 

"From the pages of Dr. Renouard, a very accurate acquaintance may he obtained with the history of medi- 
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osophical dogmas of the several periods. His historical narration is clear and concise, tracing the progress 
of medicine through its three ages or epochs — that of foundation or origin, that of tradition, and that of 
renovation." — American Journal of Medical Science. 

"The best history of medicine extant, and one that will And a place in the library of every physician who 
aim* at an acquaintance with the past history of his profession. There are many items in It we should like 
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Reese's Analysis of Physiology. 

Being a Condensed View of the most important Facts and Doctrines, de- 
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Reese's American Medical Formulary. 

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Reese's Syllabus of Medical Chemistry, 



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Stille's Epidemic Meningitis ; 

Or, Cerebro-Spinal Meningitis. By Alfred Stille, M.D., Professor of 
the Theory and Practice of Medicine in the University of Pennsylvania. 
<fcc. &c. In One Volume Octavo $2.00 

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A small compass a fair digest of our existing knowledge of the disease, particularly acceptable 
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works." — Am. Journal Med. Sciences. 

Sydenham Society's Publications, New series,!*** 

to 1870 inclusive, 12 years, 50 vols. Subscriptions received, and back 
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Stille's Elements of General Pathology. 

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Sansom on Chloroform. 

Its Action and Administration, by Arthur Ernest Sansom, M.B., 

Physician to King's College Hospital, etc., etc. 12mo. . . $2.00 

••The work of Dr. Sansom may be characterized as most excellent. Written not alone from a theoretical 
point of view, but showing very considerable experimental study, and an intimate clinical acquaintance with 
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tpon every point, — it is just the work for the student and practitioner. The author may rest assured that, 
although in his preface he objects to the ' hackneyed expression of endeavoring to supply a want,' this is jnat 
what he has done — supplied and well supplied a want, for no such book existed before in our language." — 
American Medical Journal. 



Scanzoni's Practical Treatise on the Diseases 
of the Sexual Organs of Women. 

Translated from the French of Drs. H. Dor and A. Socin, and annotated 
with the approval of the authors. By A. K. Gardner, A.M., M.D., 
Professor of Clinical Midwifery, &c, &c, in the New York Medical Col- 
lege. With Numerous Illustrations. Octavo. . . . $5.00 

In the etiology, pathology, and therapeutics of female diseases, with all the im- 
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Stokes on the Diseases of the Heart and the 
Aorta. 

By William Stokes, Regius Professor of Phasic in the University of 
Dublin ; Author of the Treatment and Diagnosis of the Diseases of the 
Chest, &c, &c. Second American Edition. Octavo. . . $3.00 

Spratt's Obstetrical Tables. 

Comprising Graphic Illustrations, with Descriptions and Practical 
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Midwifery. By G. Spratt, Surgeon Accoucheur. First American from 
the Fourth and Greatly Improved London Edition, carefully Revised, 
with Additional Notes and Colored Plates. One Volume Quarto. 
Price, $8.00 

Skoda on Auscultation and Percussion. 

By Joseph Skoda. Translated from the Fourth German Edition, by I; 
W. O. Markham, M. D., Assistant Physician to St. Mary's Hospital] 
Umo. . $1.50 



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| Tanner's Practice of Medicine. 

FIFTH AMERICAN EDITION. 

The Practice of Medicine, by Thomas Hawkes Tanner, M.D., Fellow 
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the Diseases of Infancy and Childhood, etc., etc. Fifth American from 
the Sixth London Edition. Greatly Enlarged and Improved. 

Price, bound in cloth, , . $6.00 

" " • in leather, 7.00 

Dr. Tanner's work on the Practice of Medicine is so well known in this country, and 
has had Buch an extensive and rapid sale, that it seems almost unnecessary to say any- 
thing in reference to it; the present edition, however, contains such substantial addi- 
tions and alterations as almost to constitute it a new work, and from being a com- 
paratively small volume it now forms a handsome octavo of nearly 1000 pages; all 
that was useful and practical in the smaller volume has been retained and much new 
matter added, written in the same condensed and easy style. 

"The leading feature of this book is its essentially practical character. Dr. Tanner has produced a more 
complete System of Medicine thltu any with which we are acquainted. It is the result of long experience and 
hard practice, and it is therefore valuable as a guide, and trustworthy as an exemplar." — xj&ivion Lancet. 

Tanner's Practical Treatise on the Diseases 
of Infancy and Childhood. 

Octavo $3.00 

This book differs from other works of the kind, in embracing a wider range of sub- 
jects than is usually contained in treatises on children's diseases; besides the ordinary 
complaints of those subjects, it includes many affections which, though common to 
j adults and children, yet offer some modification in form, or in the indications for treat- 
iroent, when occurring in the latter. Thus, we have an account of diseases of the eye, 
ear, and skin, of small-pox. scrofula, tuberculosis, syphilis, bronchocele, and cretinism, 
diseases of the kidneys and genital organs, and some of the accidents common to child- 
1 hood. The style of the work is condensed, and the book might with truth be called 
■ a manual, rather than a treatise, but there is nothing superficial about it; — every- 
thing really important is given, while the discussion of disputed subjects, p.nd, in 
| fact, of everything which is not of practical importance in the study and treatment of 
i children's diseases, is omitted. 

Tanner's Index of Diseases and their Treat- 
ment. 

With upwards of 500 Formula for Medicines, Baths, Mineral Waters, 
Climates for Invalids, &c., &c. Octavo. .... $3.00 

" Dr. Tanner has been peculiarly happy in appreciating and supplying the wants of the Profession. Ilia 
Index of Diseases gives the derivation of words after the manner of a good Medical Dictionary; an outline of 
every disease, including many surgical diseases, with their symptoms and mode of treatment ; an admirable 
collection of Formula?, and an account of the climates of the various parts of the world suitable for invalids. It 
also contains at the beginning of the work a tabular synopsis of subjects, which does double duty at once, a 
Nosology and an index. It will be found a most valuable companion to the judicious practitioner." — Lancet 

[Tanner's Memoranda of Poisons. 

From the Seccnd London Edition. . .... $0.j0 



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Trousseau's Lectures on Clinical Medicine. 

Delivered at the Hotel Dieu, Paris, by A. Trousseau, Professor of Clinv 
cal Medicine in the Faculty of Medicine, Paris. Translated and edited, 
with Notes and Appendices, by P. Victore Bazire, M.D., Assistcm 
Physician to the National Hospital for the Paralyzed and Epileptic, &c. 

Volume One. Cloth, 5 OC 

Volume Two, . 5 OC 

Volume Three, now Ready, 5 OC 

"This book furnishes us with an example of the best kind of clinical teaching, and we are much indebted 
to the translator fc>r supplying the Profession with these admirable Lectures. It is a book which deserves to 
be popularized. We scarcely know of any work better fitted for presentation to a young man when entering 
upon the practical work of his life. The delineation of the recorded cases is graphic, and their narration de- 
void of that prolixity which, desirable as it is for purposes of extended analysis, is highly undesirable when 
the object is to point to a practical lesson." — London Medical Times and Gazettt. 



Tyler Smith's Obstetrics. 



A Course of Lectures. By William Tyler Smith, M.D., Physician, Ac- 
coucheur, and Lecturer on Midwifery, and the Diseases of Females, in St. 
Mary's Hospital, Medical School, &c, &c. With Numerous Illustrations. 
Edited by A. K. Gardner, M.D., Fellow of the New York Academy of 
Medicine, &c, &c. Octavo. $5.00 

Toynbee on Diseases of the Ear. Their Nature, 

Diagnosis, and Treatment. A new London Edition, with a Supple- 
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Illustrations. Octavo. .... Price, $5.0C 

Thompson's Clinical Lectures on Pulmonary 
Consumption. octavo. $2.00. 

Tyson's Cell Doctrine: 

Its History and Present State, with a Copious Bibliography of the Sub- 
ject, for the use of Students of Medicine and Dentistry. By James 
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vania, &c, &c. In One Volume, with a Colored Plate, and numerous 
Illustrations on Wood. Price, $2.00 

Tilt's Elements of Health, and Principles of 
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By F. J. Tilt, M.D., Senior Physician to the Lying-in Charity, Author 
of Works on the Diseases of Menstruation, Uterine Therapeutics, &c. 
&c. 12mo U 50 

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Taylor's Theory and Practice of the Move- 
ment-Cure. 

Or, the Treatment of Lateral Curvature of the Spine, Paralysis, Indigestion, 
Constipation, Consumption, Angular Curvatures, and other Deformities, 
Diseases Incident to Women, Derangements of the Nervous System, and 
other Chronic Affections, by the Swedish System of Localized Movements. 
By Charles Taylor, M.D. With Illustrations. 12mo. . $1.50 

The work of Dr. Taylor is a systematic treatise, containing the principles on which 
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and the physiology of general exercise, the subjects of the first three chapters, in a 
most satisfactory manner. The work is purely of a scientific character, and commends 
itself as such to the attention of all physicians. 

Virchow's Cellular Pathology. 

As based upon Physiological and Pathological History. Translated from 
the Second Edition of the Original. By Frank Chance, B.A., M.A., 
Cantab Licentiate of the Royal College of Physicians, &c, &c. With 
Notes and Numerous Emendations, principally from MSS. Notes of the 
Author, and Illustrated by 144 Engravings. Octavo. . . $5.00 

Prof. Virchow and his writings are well known wherever the science of medicine is 
studied. This work has been selected by the Medical Bureau of the United States for 
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it does, the researches in this branch of science down to the present time. 

The importance of the subject, the new ideas advanced, and the established repu- 
tation of the author, induced the publication of this book, and has made it a standard 
work throughout Europe and in this country. 

Virchow on Morbid Tumors. 

IN PREPARATION. 

Walker on Intermarriage. 

Or, the Mode in which, and the Causes why, Beauty, Health, and InUUeci 
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others. With Illustrations. By Alexander Walker, Author of 
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great degree, under the control of man. Although not strictly a medical work, we cannot refrain from com- 
mending it to the pemsal of the Profession, as it contains much that is valuable in a hygienic point of view." — 
Medical Examiner 



LINDSAY AND BLAKISTON'S PUBLICATIONS. 



Wythes' Physician's Pocket, Dose, and Symp- 
tom Book. 

Containing the Doses and Uses of all the Principal Articles of the Materia 
Medica, and Original Preparations; A Table of Weights and Mea- 
sures, Rules to Proportion the Doses of Medicines, Common Abbre- 
viations used in Writing Prescriptions, Table of Poisons and Antidotes, 
Classification of the Materia Medica, Dietetic Preparations, Table of 
Symptomatology, Outlines of General Pathology and Therapeutics, &c. 
By Joseph H. Wythes, A.M., M.D., &c. The Eighth Revised Edition. 

Price, in cloth, . . 81.00 

" leather, tucks, with pockets, . . . . 1.25 

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elaborate works. The present edition has undergone a careful revision. The thera- 
peutical arrangement of the Materia Medica has been added to it, together with suck 
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Waring's Manual of Practical Therapeutics. 

Considered chiefly with reference to Articles of the Materia Medica. By 
Edward John Waring, F.R.C.S., F.L.S., &c, &c. From the Second 
London Edition. Royal Octavo. 

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" in leather, 7.00 

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in its completeness, the convenience of its arrangement, and the greater prominence 
given to the medicinal application of the various articles of the Materia Medica in the 
treatment of morbid conditions of the Human Body, &c, &c. It is divided into two 
parts, the alphabetical arrangement being adopted throughout the volume. For the 
further convenience of the reade* there is also added an Index of Diseases, with a 
list of the medicines applicable as remedies, and a full Index of the medicines and 
preparations noticed in the work. 

"Our admiration, not only for the immense industry of the author, but also of the great practical Talue of 
the volume, increases with every reading or consultation of it. We wish a copy could be put in the handt 
»t every student or practitioner in the country. In our estimation it is the best book of the kind ever 
written." — N. Y. Medical Journal. 

Weber's Clinical Hand-Book of Auscultation 
and Percussion. 

An Exposition from First Principles of the Method of Investigating 
Diseases of the Respiratory and Circulating Organs. Translated by 
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Walton's Operative Ophthalmic Surgery. 

By Haynks Walton, F.R.C.S., Surgeon to the Central London Ophthal- 
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0ctavo $4.00 

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jeci, and an accurate and most observing mind." — Dublin Quarterly Journal. 

Watson's Practice abridged. 

A Synopsis of the Lectures on the Principles and Practice of Physic. De- 
livered at King's College, London, by Thomas Watson, M.D., Fellow 
of the El&yal College of Physicians, &c, &e. From the last London 
Edition. With a concise but Complete Account of the Properties, Uses, 
Preparations, Doses, &c, of all the Medicines mentioned in these Lectures, 
and other Valuable Additions, by J. J. Meylor, A.M., M.D., &c, &c! 
A neat Pocket Volume bound in cloth flexible. . . . $2.00 

Wells' Treatise on the Diseases of the Eye, 

illustrated by Ophthalmoscopic Plates and Numerous Engravings on 
Wood. By J. Scelberu Wells, Ophthalmic Surgeon to King J s College 
Hospital, &c Second London Edition, cloth, §6 50 ; leather, $7 50. 
This is the author's own edition, printed in London under his supervision, and issued 
in this country by special arrangement with him. 

Wright on Headaches. 

Their Causes and their Cure. By Henry G. Wright, M.D., Membei 
of the Royal College of Physicians, &e. &e. From the Fourth London 
Edition. 12mo. Cloth. . . . . . '. . . $1.25 

"Few affections are more unmanageable and more troublesome than those of which 
this essay treats; and we doubt not that any suggestions by which we can relieve 
them will be gladly received by physicians. The author's plan is simple and practical. 
He treats of headaches in childhood and youth, in adult life and old age, giving in 
each their varieties and symptoms, and their causes and treatment. It is a most satis- 
factory monograph, as the mere fact that this is a reprint of the fourth edition, testifies. 

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different varieties, and establish a satisfactory basis for rational treatment, are every- 
where visible. While such a valuable fund of information is offered to the practitioner 
at the cost of a single visit, he should not let his patient suffer for want of it." — 
Medical and Surgical Reporter. 

Wells on Long, Short, and Weak Sight, and 

their Treatment by the Scientific Use of Spectacles. Third Edition Re- 
vised, with Additions and Numerous Illustrations. By J. S(ELberg 
Wells. Octavo. ..... Price, $3.00 



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Harris's Dictionary of Medical Terminology, 

Dental Surgery, and the Collateral Sciences. By Chapin A. 
Harris, M.D., D.D.S., Professor of the Principles of Dental Surgery in 
the Baltimore College, Member of the American Medical Association, &c, 
&c. The' Third Edition, carefully revised and enlarged, by Ferdi- 
nand J. S. Gorgas, M.D., D.D.S., Professor of Dental Surgery in the 
Baltimore College, &c, &c. Royal octavo. Cloth, $6.50. Leather, $7.5(1 

This Dictionary has been for a long time out of print ; a new edition has been much 
needed by the Profession, a constant and increasing demand existing for it. The pres- 
ent edition has been thoroughly revised by Professor Gorgas, Dr. Harris's successor in 
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some vwo to three thousand new words added. The doses of the more prominent medici- 
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Harris's Principles and Practice of Dental 
Surgery, 

The Ninth Edition, with 320 Illustrations, Royal octavo. 
Price, bound in cloth, bevelled boards, .... $6.00 
" leather, 7.00 

This edition of Dr. Harris's work has been subjected to a very thorough revision 
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Bond's Practical Treatise on Dental Medicine. 

Being a Compendium of Medical Science, as Connected with the Study of 
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The Third Edition. Octavo $3.00 

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Robertson's Manual on Extracting Teeth. 

Founded on the Anatomy of the Parts involved in the Operation, the Kinds 
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By A. Robertson, M.D., D.D.S., &c. A New Revised Edition. $1.50 

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Fox on the Human Teeth. 

Their Natural History and Structure, the Treatment of the Diseases to 
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Handy's Text-Book of Anatomy, 

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Dental Surgery. By AVashington R. Handy, M.D., late Professor of 
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With 312 Illustrations. Octavo $4.00 

Coles on Deformities of the Mouth. 

Congenital and Acquired, with their Mechanical Treatment. By James 
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Second Edition, Revised and Enlarged, with 8 Colored Engravings 
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Heath on the Injuries and Disesaes of the Jaws. 

The JacJcsonian Prize Essay of the Royal College of Sure/eons of Eng- 
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to University College Hospital. Over 150 Illustrations. Octavo. 
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Tomes' System of Dental Surgery. 

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Ott on the Manufacture of Soaps and Candles. 

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WORKS ALREADY PUBLISHED. 



1859. (First Year.) 
Vol. 1. Didat on Infantile Syphilis. 

2. Gooch on Diseases of Women. 

3. Memoirs on Diphtheria. 

4. Van der Kolk on the Spinal Cord, &c. 

5. Monographs (Kussmal k Tenner, Graefe, 

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T. Frerichs on Diseases of the Liver. Yol. I. 

8. A Yearbook for 1859. 

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1861. (Third Year.) 
YOL. 10. A Yearbook for 1860. 

11. Monographs ( Czermak, Dusch. Radicke, &c.) 

12. Casper's Forensic Medicine. Vol. I. 

14. Atlas of Portraits of Skin Diseases. (2nd 

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Vol. 13. Frerichs on Diseases of the Liver. Vol. II. 

15. A Yearbook for 1861. 

16. Casper's Forensic Medicine. Yol. II. 

17. Atlas of Portraits of Skin Diseases. (3d 

Fasciculus.) 

1S63. (Fifth Year.) 
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19. A Yearbook for 1862. 

20. Neubauer and Yogel on the Urine. 



1864. (Sixth Year.) 

Casper's Forensic Medicine. Yol. III. 

Doxders on the Accommodation and Refrac- 
tion of the Eye. 

A Yearbook for 1863. 

Atlas of Portraits of Skin Diseases. (4th 
Fasciculus.) 



Vol. 21. 
22. 



34. 



1865. (Seventh Year.) 
Vol. 25. A Yearbook for 1864. 

26. Casper's Forensic Medicine. Yol. IV. 

27. Atlas of Portraits of Skin Diseases. (5th 

Fasciculus.) 

1S66. (Eighth Year.) 
Yol. 28. BERXuiz&GoupiLontkeDiseases of Women. 

29. Atlas of Portraits of Skin Diseases. (6th 

Fasciculus.) 

30. Hebra on Diseases of the Skin. Yol. I. 

31. Berxutz & Guupil on Diseases of Women. 

Vol. II. 

1867. (Ninth Year.) 

Yol. 32. A Biennial Retrospect of Medicine and Sur- 
gery. 
33. Griesinger on Mental Pathology and Thera- 
peutics. 
Atlas of Portraits of Skin Diseases. (7th 
Fasciculus.) 
35. Trousseau's Clinical Medicine. Yol. I. 

1868. (Tenth Year.) 

Vol. 36. The Collected Works of Dr. Addison. 

37. Hebra on SkinD iseases. Yol. II. 

38. Laxcereaox's Treatise on Syphilis. Yol. I. 

39. Atlas of Portraits of Skin Diseases ; (Sth 

Fasciculus.) 

40. A Catalogue of the Portraits issued in the 

Society's Atlas of Skin Diseases. (Parti.) 

1869. (Eleventh Year.) 
Yol. 41. Trousseau's Clinical Medicine. Translated 
and edited by Dr. Rose Cormack. Yol. IL 

42. Biexmal Retrospect of Medicine axd Str- 

gery, for 1867-8. Edited by Dr. Anstie, 
Dr. Barnes. Mr. Holmes, Mr. Power, Mr. 
Carter, and Dr. Underwood. 

43. Laxcereaux on Syphilis. Translated by Dr. 

Whitley. Yol. II., completing the Work. 

44. A Ninth Fasciculus of the Atlas op Por- 

traits of Skin Diseases 



■WORKS TO BE PUBLISHED IN 1870. 

Trousseau's Clinical Medicine. Vol. III. 

Strieker's Manual of Histology. Vol. I. 

Niemeyer on Phthisis. 

Wunderlich's Treatise on the Use of the Thermometer in Disease. 

A Tenth Fasciculus of the Atlas of Skin Diseases. 

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Portraits of Skin diseases. Fasciculi 1 to 9, for 42 00 

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Harley's Old Vegetable Narcotics. Octavo, . . ... 

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Myology and Aponeurology. 

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Beasley's Book of Prescriptions . . 4.00 
«« Druggist's Receipt Book . . 3.50 

Barth & Roger's Auscultation . . . 1.25 
Birch on Constipation. Third edition 1.00 
Bouchardat's Annual of Therapeutics, &c. 1.50 
Bull's Maternal Management of Children 1.25 
Braithwaite's Epitome. 2 vols. . . . 10.00 
Beale's Protoplasm, 2d edition, plates, 3.00 
" On Disease Germs, do. 1.75 

Hodge on Foeticide. Paper 30 cts. ; cloth, 50 
Chambers' Lectures. Renewal of Life 5.00 
Chew on Medical Education . . . 1.00 
Cohen's Therapeutics of Inhalation . 2.50 
Cazeaux's Obstetrical Text-Book, the 
Fifth American edition, very much 
enlarged. 175 Illustrations . . . 6.50 
Cleaveland's Pronouncing Medical Lex- 
icon. Eleventh edition .... 1.25 
Carson's History Medical Department 

University of Pennsylvania . . . 2.00 
Goff's Physician's Day-Book, Ledger, &c. 12. 00 
Dixon on Diseases of the Eye. new ed. 2.60 
Kirkes Manual of Physiology. 7th Lon.ed. 6.00 
Legg's Guide to the Examination of Urine, 75 
Durkee on Gonorrhoea and Syphilis,Fifth 

edition, revised and improved . . 5.00 
Fuller on Rheumatism. Anew edition. 
Garratt on Medical Batteries . . . 2.00 
Graves' Clinical Medicine. New ed. . 6.00 
Greenhow on Chronic Bronchitis . . 2.00 
Gross' American Medical Biography . 3.50 
Headland on the Action of Medicine . 3.00 
Heath's Diseases and Injuries of the Jaws 6.00 
Hewitt on the Diseases of Women . . 5.00 
Hilles' Pocket Anatomist .... 1.00 
Holmes' Surgical Diseases of Children 9.00 
Hufeland's Art of Prolonging Life . . 1.25 
Hillier's Diseases of Children . . . 3.00 
Mackenzie on the Laryngoscope, Rhino- 
scopy, and Diseases of the Throat . 

Morris on Scarlet Fever 1 

Meigs' & Pepper's Treatise on Diseases 

of Children. Fourth edition, rewritten 

and very much enlarged .... 

Maxson's Practice of Medicine 

Mendenhall's Medical Student's Vade 

Mecum. Eighth edition .... 

Pennsylvania Hospital Reports. Vols. 

1 and 2, each 

Paget's Lectures on Surgical Pathology 
Pereira's Physician's Prescription Book 1.25 
Physician's Visiting List. Various si%es 
and prices 



3.00 
50 



6.00 
4.00 

2.50 

4.00 
6.00 



O 1 Mm 



Prince's Orthopedic Surgery . . . $3.00 
Prince's Plastic Surgery. Illustrated 1.60 
Renouard's History of Medicine . . 4.00 
Radcliffe on Epilepsy. Pain, Paralysis, &o. 2.00 
Lawson's Complete Text-Book of Dis- 
eases and Injuries of the Eye . . 2.50 
Ruppaner on Laryngoscopy, &c. . . 2 00 
Ryan's Philosophy of Marriage . . 1.00 
Reese's Analysis of Physiology . . . 1.50 
Reese's American Medical Formulary 1 50 
Sydenham Society's Biennial Retrospect 2.0C 
Still's Epidemic Meningitis . . . 2.00 
Sansom on Chloroform, its Action, Modes 

of Administration, &c, &c. . . . 2.00 
Stokes on Diseases of the Heart . . 3 00 
Spratt's Obstetric Tables. 4to, col'd PI. 8.00 
Skoda on Auscultation and Percussion 1 fit) 
Sydenham Society's Pub. Per year, 10.00 
Tyson's Cell Doctrine. Illustrated. . 2.00 
Tanner's Practice of Medicine, 5th ed. 6.00 
Tanner on Diseases of Children . . 3.00 
Tanner's Index of Diseases . . . 3.00 
Tanner's Memoranda of Poisons . . .50 
Trousseau's Clinical Medicine. Vols. 

1, 2, and 3, each 5.00 

Thompson on Pulmonary Consumption 1.25 
Tilt's Elements of Female Hygiene . 1.60 
Taylor's Movement Cure . ., . . 1.50 
Virchow's Cellular Pathology . . . 5.00 
Scelberg Wells on the Eye. 2d London 

Edition, with Illustrations . . . 6.50 
Walker on Intermarriage .... 1.50 
Wythe's Pocket Dose and Symptom 

Book. Eighth edition 1.00 

Waring's Practical Therapeutics . . 6.00 
Walton's Operative Ophthalmic Surgery 4.00 
Watson's Practice, Abridged . . . 2.00 

Wright on Head-Aches 1.25 

Wells on Long, Short, and Weak Sight. 

Third edition 3.00 

Weber's Clinical Hand-Book of A 

tation and Percussion . . . 
Harris' Dictionary of Medical r . 

nology and Dental Surgery . 
Harris' Principles and Practi 

Dental Surgery. Ninth editio 

Bond's Dental Medicine 

Robertson on Extracting Teeth . 
Taft's Operative Dentistry . . 
Fox on the Human Teeth . . 
Richardson's Mechanical Dentisti 
Handy's Text-Book of Anatomy 
Coles on Deformities of the Moutl 

Edition. Colored Illustrations 
Tomes' System of Dental Surgery 

SCIENTIFIC. 
Cooley's Toilet and Cosmetic Arts 
Ott on the Manufacture of Soap 

Candles 

Piesse on Perfumery. A new edi; 
Overman's Mineralogy, Assaying 

Mining 

Piggott on Copper Mining . . 
Morfit's Chemical Manipulations 
Campbell's Agriculture . . . 
rlington's Flora Cestrica . . 
er & Lizars on Alcohol and Tobucoo 



See Catalogue: 

CLASSIFIED AND DESCRIPTIVE CATALOGUES OF MEDICAL BOOKS, WITB 
ANNEXED, SENT FREE BY MAIL UPON APPLICATION. 







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